(Glenoid Labrum Tear; Labral Tear, Shoulder)
Definition
Definition
A shoulder labral tear is tear of the labrum. The labrum is the tissue that helps hold the end of the arm bone, known as the humerus, in place.
Shoulder JointThe tool and arrow point to the labrum (cartilage) of the glenoid.
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Causes
Causes
Shoulder labral tears occur from an injury or through long-term wear and tear. Common causes include the following:
- Dislocated shoulder
- A violent overhead reach, such as when trying to stop a fall or slide
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your chance of a labral tear include:
-
Participation in certain sports, such as:
- Baseball (pitchers)
- Golf
- Weightlifting
- Tennis
- Falling onto your shoulder
- Repetitive movements of the shoulder
- Lifting heavy objects
- Breaking a fall with your arms
- Direct blow to the shoulder
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Shoulder and/or arm pain
- Catching or loosening feeling of the shoulder
- Loss of shoulder range of motion
- Weakness of shoulder and/or arm
- Pain with shoulder movement
- Popping or grinding sensation
- Achiness of the shoulder
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Imaging tests to evaluate the shoulder and surrounding structures may include:
Treatment
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. You will likely be referred to a specialist such as an orthopedic surgeon. Treatment options include the following:
Medical Treatment
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Rest, heat, and/or ice
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles
Generally, this treatment is tried for several weeks. If there is no improvement, surgery is considered. Your doctor may also inject a steroid directly into your shoulder to decrease inflammation and pain.
Surgical Treatment
In a shoulder arthroscopy, a surgeon inserts a thin, lighted tube through a small incision to view the injury and fix it. Small instruments are threaded through this tube. The torn ligament/tissue may be removed or sewn together. Wires or tacks may also be used to reattach any torn tendons.
Rehabilitation
After surgery, you will be given a sling to wear for up to 4 weeks. When the sling is removed, you will work with a physical therapist to gradually strengthen your arm muscles and increase your motion.
Prevention
Prevention
To help reduce your chance of a shoulder labral tear:
- Use the proper technique when playing sports.
- Avoid putting yourself at risk for trauma to the shoulder area.
- Perform stretching and strengthening exercises that target the shoulder area.
RESOURCES:
Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org
References:
http://www.orthogate.org/patient-education/shoulder/labral-tears.html
Updated July 27, 2006. Accessed September 2, 2015.
Shoulder Joint Tear (Glenoid Labrum Tear). American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00426
Updated January 2001. Accessed September 2, 2015.
What is a labrum/labral tear? Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at:
http://www.hopkinsortho.org/labrum_tear.html
Accessed September 2, 2015.
Last Updated: 11/21/2013