Dr.karnav Panchal is a specialist in knee, hip, shoulder and elbow related problems. After completing his M.S. in orthopedics at B.J. Medical College, one of the prestigious institutes in India, he has been trained in the fields of joint replacement surgeries and sports injuries at Mumbai and South Korea.
You might be suffering from a SLAP Tear — a common yet often misdiagnosed injury of the shoulder joint, particularly in athletes and individuals engaged in overhead or heavy lifting activities.
Dr. Karnav Panchal, a leading orthopedic surgeon in Ahmedabad, offers precise diagnosis and advanced arthroscopic treatment for SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tears, helping you regain shoulder stability, eliminate pain, and return to full activity.
SLAP Tear refers to an injury of the labrum, the ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket (glenoid). Specifically, it affects the top (superior) part of the labrum, where the biceps tendon attaches.
“SLAP” stands for:
Superior
Labrum
Anterior (front)
Posterior (back)
This type of tear can destabilize the joint and cause pain during movement, especially overhead activities.
Repetitive overhead motions (e.g., tennis, cricket, swimming)
Heavy lifting or weight training
Trauma or fall onto an outstretched arm
Sudden pull on the arm (e.g., grabbing a moving object)
Age-related degeneration of the labrum
Previous shoulder dislocations or instability
Deep shoulder pain during overhead or behind-the-back movements
Clicking, popping, or grinding sensation
Decreased shoulder strength and range of motion
Difficulty lifting weights or playing sports
Locking or catching feeling in the shoulder
Discomfort while sleeping on the affected side
Dr. Karnav Panchal performs a comprehensive assessment including:
Clinical shoulder instability and motion tests
MRI Arthrogram (MRI with contrast) to detect labral tears
Diagnostic arthroscopy (minimally invasive visualization if needed)
Early diagnosis is essential to avoid progression of damage and shoulder dysfunction.
There are different types of SLAP tears (Type I to IV), ranging from fraying of the labrum to complete detachment involving the biceps tendon. Treatment depends on the type and severity.
For minor or degenerative SLAP tears:
Rest and activity modification
Physiotherapy to strengthen rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers
Anti-inflammatory medications
Corticosteroid or PRP injections
✅ May work for non-athletes or older individuals with mild symptoms
Minimally invasive procedure using 2–3 small incisions
Torn labrum is reattached to the socket using suture anchors
Biceps tendon may be preserved or treated depending on tear type
Outpatient procedure with quick recovery
✅ High success rate
✅ Restores full shoulder stability and function
✅ Ideal for overhead athletes and active adults
Detaches the biceps tendon from the labrum and reattaches it to the humerus
Often done in middle-aged or older patients with degenerative SLAP tears
✅ Reduces pain while preserving shoulder strength
Long-term pain relief
Restores strength, mobility, and stability
Prevents worsening of labral or biceps damage
Allows return to sports and overhead activities
Minimally invasive, fast recovery
You may be a candidate if:
You are a young, active individual or athlete
You have persistent pain and instability despite therapy
You experience mechanical symptoms (clicking, locking)
MRI confirms labral tear
You’ve failed conservative treatment for 6–8 weeks or more
Dr. Karnav Panchal will assess your condition and customize the best surgical or non-surgical plan for recovery.
✅ Shoulder arthroscopy expert with extensive experience in SLAP repairs
✅ Advanced keyhole surgery techniques
✅ Personalized treatment plans for athletes and active professionals
✅ Rehabilitation-focused approach to ensure full recovery
✅ Trusted by patients across Ahmedabad and Gujarat
Sling: 2–3 weeks
Physiotherapy: Starts early and continues for 3–4 months
Daily activities: ~4–6 weeks
Return to sports: 4–6 months depending on severity and compliance
Dr. Karnav Panchal operates in Ahmedabad’s top orthopedic hospitals equipped with:
Robotic-assisted surgery systems (where available)
Computer-navigated instruments
Infection-controlled surgical suites
Dedicated rehab and physiotherapy units
Minimal access surgical tools for microplasty
Dr. Karnav Panchal operates at top orthopedic hospitals in Ahmedabad, equipped with:
Advanced arthroscopy systems
Sterile surgical environments
Dedicated sports rehab facilities
Patient-centered care teams
Whether you’re from Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Vadodara, Surat, Bhavnagar, or beyond, trust Dr. Karnav Panchal for precise diagnosis and expert care in SLAP tears and sports shoulder injuries.
Minor frays may improve with therapy, but significant tears often require arthroscopic repair for full recovery.
It’s a 45–90-minute procedure, done under general anesthesia, usually as a day-care surgery.
Pain is minimal and well-managed with medication and nerve blocks.
Light weights at 3 months; full strength training after 4–5 months, under supervision.
Yes, with proper surgery and physiotherapy, most patients regain full motion and strength.