Labral Tears

Shoulder labral injuries can cause pain, clicking, or instability. We can help you find relief and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Labral Tears

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Introduction

The shoulder labrum is an important structure that helps keep the shoulder joint stable. Injuries to the labrum can happen from sports, falls, repetitive overhead motion, or normal wear over time. These injuries can make everyday tasks painful and may limit your range of motion. Early evaluation and treatment can help restore comfort and shoulder function.

What is the Shoulder Labrum?

The shoulder labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. It helps deepen the socket, making the joint more stable, and provides attachment points for ligaments and the biceps tendon. When the labrum is torn or damaged, the shoulder may feel painful, weak, or unstable.

What Are the Symptoms of a Labral Injury?

Common symptoms include:

A deep ache inside the shoulder
Clicking, popping, or catching sensations
Feeling like the shoulder could slip or give way
Pain during lifting, reaching, or overhead activities
Decreased strength and range of motion

These symptoms may come and go or worsen with certain movements.

How Do I Know if I Have an Injured Labrum?

A labral injury is diagnosed through:

A physical examination to check strength, stability, and painful movements
Imaging such as an MRI or MRI with contrast, which provides detailed images of the labrum
Your symptom history, including when the pain started and what makes it worse

Because symptoms can mimic other shoulder conditions, a proper evaluation is important.

Treatments for Labral Injuries

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the tear. Options include:

Physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve stability, and reduce pain
Activity modification to avoid motions that irritate the shoulder
Anti-inflammatory medications to help manage pain and swelling
Corticosteroid injections if conservative treatment does not provide enough relief

Severe or persistent tears may require surgery to repair the torn tissue.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery varies depending on the injury and whether surgery is needed. Most patients benefit from physical therapy to improve flexibility, rebuild strength, and restore proper movement patterns. After surgery, rehabilitation typically lasts several months, helping patients gradually return to daily tasks, work, and sports. Staying consistent with your rehab plan is key to achieving the best long-term outcome.

References

Keener JD, Brophy RH. Superior Labral Tears of the Shoulder: Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Treatment. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2009;17(10):627-637. doi:10.5435/00124635-200910000-00005.

Knesek M, Skendzel JG, Dines JS, et al. Diagnosis and Management of Superior Labral Anterior Posterior Tears in Throwing Athletes. Am J Sports Med. 2013;41(2):444-460. doi:10.1177/0363546512466067.

Nam EK, Snyder SJ. The Diagnosis and Treatment of Superior Labrum, Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) Lesions. Am J Sports Med. 2003;31(5):798-810. doi:10.1177/03635465030310052901.