Shoulder Labral Tear
Overview
Causes
In some people, it may be caused by the normal aging process. In others, it may be caused by trauma from:
- A fall on an outstretched hand
- A pull on an arm, such as from losing grip of something that is heavy
- A direct blow to the shoulder
- A dislocated shoulder
- A motor vehicle accident
- Repetitive overhead activities, such as sports that involve throwing
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. You will also be asked how the injury happened. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the shoulder and arm. You may need to see a doctor who treats bones.
Images will be taken of the shoulder. This can be done with an x-ray. An MRI scan may also be done.
Treatments
Treatment
It will take 4 to 6 weeks for most people to heal. The goals of treatment are to manage pain and support the shoulder as it heals. This may include:
- Medicine to ease pain and swelling
- A sling to keep the shoulder in place as it heals
- Exercises to help with strength and range of motion
Surgery
Some people may need surgery when other methods do not help. This can be done with shoulder arthroscopy. A thin, lighted tube is inserted through a small incision in the shoulder. Small instruments are also passed through the opening. The torn ligament or tissue is removed or sewn together. Wires or tacks may be used to reattach any torn tendons.
Some people may need surgery when other methods do not help. This can be done with shoulder arthroscopy. A thin, lighted tube is inserted through a small incision in the shoulder. Small instruments are also passed through the opening. The torn ligament or tissue is removed or sewn together. Wires or tacks may be used to reattach any torn tendons.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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a (Glenoid Labrum Tear; Labral Tear, Shoulder)
RESOURCES
Arthroscopy Association of North America http://www.aana.org
Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org
References
Calcei JG, Boddapati V, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Injuries to the Biceps and Superior Labral Complex in Overhead Athletes. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2018 Mar;11(1):63-71.
Labral Tears. Internet Society of Orthopaedic Surgery & Trauma website. Available at: http://www.orthogate.org/patient-education/shoulder/labral-tears.html. Updated September 4, 2015. Accessed December 5, 2019.
Shoulder Joint Tear (Glenoid Labrum Tear). American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00426. Updated October 2017. Accessed December 5, 2019.
What is a labrum/labral tear? Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at: http://www.hopkinsortho.org/labrum%5Ftear.html. Accessed December 5, 2019.