Shoulder Labral Tears
Injury to the cartilage rim of the shoulder socket that can cause catching, clicking, or instability
A labral tear is an injury to the labrum, a ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket that helps stabilise the joint. Labral tears can occur due to trauma, overuse, or degeneration, leading to pain, instability, and limited movement. Dr Ben McGrath, an orthopaedic specialist, offers expert diagnosis and tailored treatments to alleviate symptoms and restore shoulder function.
What is a Labral Tear?
The labrum is a cartilage structure that deepens the shoulder socket, providing stability and cushioning to the joint. A labral tear occurs when this cartilage is damaged or torn, compromising the joint’s stability and function. Labral tears are common in athletes and individuals involved in repetitive overhead activities or heavy lifting.
Common Symptoms of Labral Tears
Patients with labral tears may experience:
- Shoulder Pain: Pain that worsens with overhead or repetitive movements.
- Catching or Locking Sensation: A feeling that the shoulder is catching, locking, or grinding during movement.
- Instability or Weakness: A sensation of looseness or reduced strength in the shoulder.
- Decreased Range of Motion: Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: Audible or palpable sounds during shoulder movement.
If these symptoms persist, a thorough assessment by Dr McGrath can confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors for Labral Tears
Several factors can contribute to labral tears:
- Trauma: Falls, direct impact, or dislocations can cause acute tears.
- Repetitive Overuse: Activities such as swimming, throwing, or heavy lifting place stress on the labrum.
- Ageing: Degeneration of the labrum over time can make it more susceptible to tears.
- Poor Mechanics: Improper movement patterns or muscular imbalances can lead to increased strain on the labrum.
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports or activities involving repetitive overhead motions are common causes.
Understanding these causes helps guide prevention and treatment strategies.
Types of Labral Tears
Labral tears are classified based on their location and nature:
- SLAP Tears (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior): Occur at the top of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches. Common in throwing athletes.
- Bankart Lesions: Found in the lower front part of the labrum, typically associated with shoulder dislocations.
- Posterior Labral Tears: Occur at the back of the shoulder, often due to repetitive stress or trauma.
- Degenerative Labral Tears: Result from age-related wear and tear, common in older adults.
Dr McGrath evaluates the type of tear to determine the most suitable treatment approach.
Diagnosis of Labral Tears
Dr Ben McGrath uses a comprehensive diagnostic approach to confirm labral tears:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Dr McGrath assesses pain, stability, and shoulder function through specific tests designed to identify labral injuries.
- Imaging Tests: MRI scans, often combined with contrast dye (MR arthrogram), provide detailed images of the labrum and surrounding structures.
- Arthroscopy: In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure is used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the tear.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Labral Tears
Many labral tears can be managed without surgery, especially minor tears or degenerative changes:
- Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can develop exercises to improve shoulder stability, strengthen surrounding muscles, and enhance range of motion.
- Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms can help reduce strain on the labrum.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help alleviate pain and inflammation. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
These treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and support the shoulder’s natural healing process.
Surgical Treatments for Labral Tears
Surgery may be necessary for severe tears or cases that do not respond to conservative treatments. Options include:
- Arthroscopic Labral Repair: A minimally invasive procedure to repair the torn labrum using sutures or anchors.
- Debridement: Removal of frayed or damaged labral tissue to reduce pain and improve joint function.
- Shoulder Stabilisation Surgery: For recurrent dislocations or instability, surgical techniques may be used to stabilise the joint.
Dr McGrath carefully considers the patient’s age, activity level, and tear severity before recommending surgery. Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for a successful recovery.
When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Shoulder Pain
If shoulder pain, instability, or restricted movement persists for more than a few weeks, or if symptoms interfere with daily activities or sports performance, a consultation with Dr McGrath can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
FAQs About Labral Tears
Minor tears may improve with rest, physiotherapy, and activity modification. Severe tears often require surgical intervention.
Recovery typically takes 3–6 months, with physiotherapy playing a crucial role in restoring strength and mobility.
While not entirely preventable, strengthening shoulder muscles, maintaining flexibility, and using proper techniques during physical activities can reduce the risk.