Shoulder Labrum Tears
What is the shoulder labrum?
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket (glenoid). It helps deepen the socket, stabilize the joint, and serve as an attachment point for ligaments and the biceps tendon.
A labral tear is an injury to this cartilage ring. The labrum can become frayed, torn, or detached from the bone, usually from trauma or repetitive motion. Tears may occur in different regions — anterior, posterior, or superior — depending on the cause and motion involved.
Common symptoms include deep shoulder pain, clicking or catching with movement, and feelings of instability or weakness. Overhead motion, lifting, or throwing may worsen symptoms. In some cases, pain is also felt at night or when lying on the affected side.
Labral tears can result from shoulder dislocations, repetitive overhead movements (like throwing or swimming), or gradual wear over time. They may also occur with other injuries, such as rotator cuff tears or biceps tendon issues.
Diagnosis starts with a physical exam and review of symptoms. Special examination maneuvers and tests help reproduce the pain or instability. MRI or MRI with contrast (arthrogram) is typically used to visualize the labrum and assess the size and type of tear.
Many labral tears can be treated without surgery using rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. If pain or instability persists, especially in active patients, surgery may be recommended to repair the torn tissue.
Labral repair is an arthroscopic procedure where the torn labrum is reattached to the bone using small anchors and sutures. This helps restore joint stability and function, especially in patients with a history of dislocations or active lifestyles.
Recovery usually takes 4 to 6 months. A sling is worn for several weeks to protect the repair. Physical therapy begins with gentle motion, then progresses to strength-building. Return to sports or heavy lifting typically happens around 5 to 6 months.
At a Glance
Sachin Allahabadi, MD
- Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Sports Medicine Surgeon
- Expertise in Minimally Invasive Knee & Shoulder Surgeries
- Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College
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