Tears of the glenoid labrum in the shoulder can be placed into one of two categories. The first is labral tears which result in shoulder instability (please see shoulder instability). The second is labral tears that do not result in instability. This section will review those tears that do not lead to instability.
Tears or disruptions of the glenoid labrum may produce pain which is often associated with a clicking or popping sensation. These can be difficult to diagnose and may require an M.R.I. to locate and confirm the diagnosis of a torn labrum. The labrum may tear anywhere along its surface or at the insertion of the labrum into the glenoid bone.
Labral tears on the surface of the glenoid, which mates with the head of the humerus, may only produce mild symptoms and may be managed with conservative treatment. Other tears along the surface may be very painful and will not resolve without Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery. These types of tears usually require a partial removal of the torn area, with specialized cutting instruments, to provide pain relief.
