Labrum Tears
Shoulder Dislocations and SLAP Tears
The labrum is the soft fibrous tissue rim that surrounds the shoulder socket to help stabilize the joint. A labrum gives support, holding the bones that make up the ball and socket joint in place. The ligaments that help hold the joint together attach to the labrum. It also provides cushioning to the joint.
Shoulder Instability (dislocation or subluxation) can result from a tear in the labrum. Injuries such as falls and collisions in contact sports can injure the labrum and cause it to tear. Shoulder dislocations almost always result in a labral tear.
Individuals who perform a lot of overhead motions such as throwers and volleyball players are prone to superior labral (SLAP) tears.
Symptoms of a labral tear include pain, clicking, popping, and sensations of instability.
Non-operative Treatment
Conservative treatment is generally the first approach in addressing symptoms from a labral tear. Physical therapy can help strengthen the supporting muscles around the joint and improve the mechanics of the shoulder motion.
Surgical Treatment
If physical therapy is not able to alleviate symptoms of pain and instability, arthroscopic surgery can be performed to reattach the labrum. The labrum can be reattached to the rim of the glenoid (socket) using strong sutures and anchors.
Rehabilitation
Following the Arthroscopic Labral Repair surgery, physical therapy is used to regain strength and shoulder range of motion. The specific approach one takes depends on the severity and location of the tear.
Most patients wear a sling for 3-4 weeks after surgery and attend physical therapy for 3-4 months. Many athletes are able to return to sports in 4-6 months following surgery.