SLAP & Labral Tear Physical Therapy in Ahwatukee & Phoenix, AZ
Expert One-on-One Physical Therapy to Reduce Shoulder Pain and Restore Stability
If you're experiencing deep shoulder pain, painful clicking or catching, weakness, or difficulty throwing or lifting overhead, you may be dealing with a SLAP tear or shoulder labral tear. At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, we provide personalized, one-on-one physical therapy to reduce pain, restore shoulder stability, and help you safely return to work, sports, and the activities you enjoy.
Every visit is completed one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, ensuring your treatment plan is individualized to your goals and designed to address the root cause of your symptoms.
Ready to get started? Schedule your evaluation today.
What Is a SLAP or Labral Tear?
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket, helping improve stability and providing attachment points for several ligaments and the biceps tendon. A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) is a specific type of labral injury that occurs at the top of the shoulder socket where the biceps tendon attaches.
Labral tears may occur following a fall, shoulder dislocation, repetitive overhead sports such as baseball or volleyball, heavy lifting, or age-related degeneration. While some labral tears require surgery, many patients experience significant improvement with a well-designed physical therapy program.
Common Symptoms
You may have a SLAP or labral tear if you experience:
✔ Deep shoulder pain
✔ Pain with throwing or overhead activities
✔ Clicking, popping, or catching sensations
✔ Shoulder weakness
✔ A feeling that the shoulder is unstable or "slipping"
✔ Pain while lifting weights
✔ Pain reaching behind your back
✔ Difficulty with sports, work, or daily activities
Common Causes
SLAP and labral tears commonly develop from:
Falls onto an outstretched arm
Shoulder dislocations
Repetitive overhead throwing
Heavy lifting
Traumatic shoulder injuries
Weightlifting
Repetitive overhead work
Age-related degeneration
Our evaluation identifies the structures contributing to your symptoms so treatment focuses on improving shoulder function—not just relieving pain.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Your treatment plan at Movewell is designed specifically for your shoulder injury and activity goals. Treatment may include:
Hands-on Manual Therapy to improve shoulder and thoracic spine mobility.
Rotator Cuff Strengthening to improve dynamic shoulder stability.
Scapular Strengthening to improve shoulder blade mechanics.
Mobility & Flexibility Exercises to restore normal movement.
Neuromuscular Control Exercises to improve shoulder stability and coordination.
Progressive Strengthening to safely rebuild shoulder function.
Return-to-Sport or Activity Progressions to safely resume throwing, lifting, work, and recreation.
Our goal is to reduce pain while restoring the strength, stability, and movement quality needed for long-term success.
Why Choose Movewell?
At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, you'll receive:
100% one-on-one treatment with a Doctor of Physical Therapy
Expert orthopedic and sports rehabilitation
Evidence-based treatment plans
Hands-on manual therapy
Personalized exercise programs
Clear education throughout your recovery
A fun, welcoming environment focused on helping you move your best
Our mission is simple:
Help you move well, reduce pain, and return to the activities you love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a SLAP tear heal without surgery?
Many SLAP tears can be successfully managed with physical therapy. Treatment focuses on improving shoulder mobility, strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles, and restoring normal movement mechanics. Surgery may be recommended for certain traumatic tears or when significant instability persists.
Do I need an MRI?
An MRI or MR arthrogram is often used to confirm a labral tear. However, a thorough physical examination can help determine whether your symptoms are consistent with a labral injury and whether additional imaging may be appropriate.
Can I continue lifting weights?
Many patients can continue modified strength training while avoiding movements that increase symptoms. Your physical therapist will guide you through safe exercise progressions during recovery.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery depends on the size and location of the tear, your activity level, and whether surgery is required. Many patients improve over several weeks to months with consistent rehabilitation.
Ready to Get Back to Pain-Free Movement?
Shoulder pain and instability don't have to keep you from lifting, throwing, working, or enjoying your favorite activities. At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, we'll identify the cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you recover and move with confidence.