Shoulder Labral Tears

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The labrum is a ring of cartilage that deepens the shoulder socket (glenoid) and adds stability to the joint.

The shoulder joint is a ball and socket with the head of the humerus (ball) fitting into the cup formed by the labrum and glenoid (socket).

 

Signs and Symptoms

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• Sense of catching or instability of the shoulder

 

What causes a shoulder labral tear?

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• Trauma
• History of shoulder instability
• In sports: weight lifters, football linemen

 

Non-surgical Treatment

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• Ice, heat, anti-inflammatory or NSAIDs
• Injection therapy and physical therapy

 

Surgical Treatment: Shoulder Arthroscopy (Labral Repair)

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• Reattach the labrum to the glenoid rim with special anchors and sutures
• Repair typically restores stability and resolves catching

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Physical Therapy is an integral component to your recovery from surgery
-Appropriate timing and progression is key to the outcome
• For further details on your rehabilitation, please see the Physical Therapy section in Patient Resources.