What is a Shoulder Labral Tear?
The shoulder labrum is a rim of tissue that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. A labral tear is an injury or tear to this rim of tissue. It can be caused by a traumatic injury such as a fall or direct blow to the shoulder, or by overuse from repetitive activities such as throwing or lifting heavy weights.
Symptoms of Shoulder Labral Tear
Pain in the shoulder joint
Decreased range of motion
Clicking or popping sensations in the shoulder
Feeling of instability
Weakness in the shoulder.
Pain may worsen when reaching to the back or with overhead activities.
Symptoms also vary depending on the location of the labral tear. In some cases, a labral tear may be asymptomatic and only detected incidentally on imaging studies such as MRI or arthroscopy.
Diagnosis and Imaging
If you suspect you have a shoulder labral tear, it is advisable to seek medical attention from an orthopaedic specialist at Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery. Our doctor will first ask you questions about your injury, how it occurred, your current symptoms, and how it is affecting your daily function. He will then proceed with a careful examination of your shoulder and rule out potential associated injuries within the shoulder joint.
Radiographs of the affected shoulder may be ordered, but more commonly, detailed imaging with an MRI is needed to assess the extent of the labral tear and potential associated injuries more closely.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Labral Tear
Treatment for a labral tear depends on the severity of the injury and other factors such as age, overall health, and activity level.
In cases where it is detected incidentally on imaging studies, surgical intervention may not be necessary. Conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may be effective in reducing symptoms and promoting healing for some patients.
In more severe cases, surgical intervention such as arthroscopic labral repair or reconstruction may be necessary to reattach or reconstruct the torn labrum.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation after surgery typically involves physical therapy to restore strength, range of motion, and function in the shoulder joint. It is important to work closely with your orthopaedic specialist (Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery) to develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for your individual needs and goals. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, most people with a labral tear are able to return to their normal activities within a few months.
If you suspect you have a shoulder labral injury, make an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist at Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery for a detailed assessment of your condition.
