SLAP Repair Physiotherapy Singapore
SLAP repair is a shoulder surgery to fix a torn labrum. Physiotherapy in Singapore is essential before and after surgery to restore strength, stability, and full function.
What is a SLAP Repair?
A Superior Labral Anterior Posterior (SLAP) repair is a specialized keyhole surgery. The labrum is a cartilage ring that deepens the shoulder socket and carefully anchors your biceps tendon. When this is torn, surgery re-anchors it firmly to the bone. At https://acephysiosport.com, our clinical physiotherapists provide the essential, highly careful post-operative rehabilitation needed to safely guide you from rigid immobilization back to comfortable, normal mechanics.
Causes (Why is surgery needed?)
Surgical repair is generally recommended when the labral damage actively causes the shoulder to click, catch, or feel highly unstable. Common reasons include: • Direct trauma, such as falling heavily onto an outstretched arm • Shoulder dislocations that completely peel the labrum from the socket • Repetitive overhead motions common in swimming, tennis, or throwing sports • Progressive, age-related degenerative changes to the cartilage
Symptoms Following Surgery
Post-operative recovery from a SLAP repair proceeds through very strict clinical stages. In the initial weeks, it is completely normal to endure: • Post-surgical deep aching and widespread stiffness in the shoulder • Frustrating discomfort attempting to sleep comfortably on your side • Heavily restricted range of motion largely due to the protective sling • Muscle tightness and spasms running up the neck from poor posture • Temporary weakness and feeling completely unable to lift properly
What should I do?
Following your surgery, strict adherence to your surgeon's protocol is essential to protect the tiny bone anchors. Wear your sling exactly as prescribed. Use regular cold therapy gently to soothe swelling. Many patients find sleeping in an elevated recliner chair far more comfortable than lying flat. "If you are looking for post-operative SLAP repair rehab in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help" by immediately deploying carefully supervised passive movements.
What shouldn’t I do?
Do not intuitively try to actively lift your arm or forcefully stretch your hand outward during the initial phase; doing so places dangerous stress precisely on the repair. Strongly avoid trying to lift items or flexing your biceps, as the tendon directly pulls on the healing labrum.
Physiotherapy treatment
Rehabilitation naturally requires a patient, heavily protocol-guided process to ensure success at https://acephysiosport.com: • Phase 1: Protection & Passive Range (Weeks 1-4): The sole priority is protecting the repair. We use strict passive mobility—moving the arm for you safely—to prevent the joint from freezing shut entirely. • Phase 2: Active Assisted Mobility (Weeks 4-8): As the anchors reliably solidify, we carefully introduce active-assisted movements, promoting basic shoulder function while protecting the biceps. • Phase 3: Strengthening & Stabilisation (Weeks 8+): We progressively engage the rotator cuff to stabilize the joint safely, preparing you for daily demands.
Recovery / long-term effects
Returning to baseline overhead function easily takes 6 to 9 robust months of clinical rehabilitation. With dedicated compliance, patients safely regain wonderful functional stability and securely say goodbye to sharp catching pain.
Why choose ACE Physio Sports
Located centrally near East Coast Road, we collaborate comfortably with local orthopaedic specialists to ensure your recovery is safely charted. We respectfully adhere to all post-operative boundaries, ensuring your shoulder heals completely.
Book an Appointment
Don't let post-surgical stiffness permanently freeze your shoulder. Lock in your recovery safely with our specialists. Call us at +65 81535374 or book online at https://acephysiosport.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my arm be in a sling after SLAP Repair?
Sling use typically ranges from 2–6 weeks depending on the type of repair. Your physiotherapist will guide you on when to begin pendulum exercises and gentle movement within the sling period to prevent stiffness.
When can I lift my arm above my head after SLAP Repair?
Overhead movement is usually restricted for the first 6–12 weeks to protect the repair. Range-of-motion progresses gradually under your physiotherapist's guidance, with full overhead function typically targeted at 3–6 months.
What is the most important thing I can do after SLAP Repair to get a good outcome?
Following your physiotherapy programme consistently is the single most important factor. Muscles around the shoulder must be progressively strengthened to protect the repair and prevent re-injury. Consistent attendance and home exercise compliance make the biggest difference.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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