Common Shoulder Problems
Labral Tear
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.
Labral tears in which the labrum has been torn off of the glenoid bone are normally located in the shaded area of the glenoid below.
These separations of the labrum from the bone will not heal and must be repaired surgically. These surgical repairs are typically performed during shoulder arthroscopy and seldom require a traditional open surgical approach. The method for surgical repair requires the use of either sutures connected to bone anchors or tacks which are driven or screwed through the labrum and into the glenoid. Many of these devices are absorbable and will dissolve after the labrum heals to the glenoid bone.
The rehabilitation period is slower with this type of repair versus a partial removal of a torn labrum. It is important to allow the labral repair enough time to heal before resuming normal activities. A program of physical therapy will be required in the weeks following surgery to ensure a complete recovery.