Labrum Tear Treatment

At New York Spine and Sports Surgery, we specialize in diagnosing and treating labrum tears, providing state-of-the-art solutions to help restore your shoulder’s function and eliminate pain. Whether caused by injury, overuse, or age-related wear, we offer tailored treatment plans to ensure optimal recovery and long-term shoulder health.

What Is a Labrum Tear?

The labrum is a ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket, providing stability and support to the joint. A labrum tear occurs when this cartilage becomes damaged due to trauma, repetitive motion, or degenerative changes. Labrum tears are common in athletes, active individuals, and those with physically demanding jobs.

Types of Labrum Tears

• SLAP Tear: Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior tear, often caused by repetitive overhead motion.
• Bankart Tear: Damage to the lower part of the labrum, typically from shoulder dislocation.
• Posterior Labrum Tear: Rare, caused by injuries to the back of the shoulder.
• Degenerative Labrum Tear: Resulting from age-related cartilage wear and tear.

Symptoms of a Labrum Tear

• Shoulder Pain: Often worsened by overhead or rotational movements.
• Instability: Feeling like the shoulder is slipping out of place.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty with normal shoulder movements.
• Popping or Clicking: Sounds or sensations during movement.
• Weakness: Decreased strength in the affected arm.

Diagnosing a Labrum Tear

Our expert team conducts a thorough evaluation to diagnose a labrum tear:

1. Physical Examination: Assessing range of motion, stability, and pain points.
2. Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans may be used to confirm the tear and assess its severity.
3. Arthroscopy: In some cases, minimally invasive imaging is used to directly view the labrum.

Labrum Tear Treatment Options

We offer a range of non-surgical and surgical treatments depending on the type and severity of the tear:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening the shoulder muscles to improve stability and function.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Managing pain and reducing inflammation.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Targeted relief for severe pain and swelling.
• Activity Modification: Avoiding movements that exacerbate symptoms while the joint heals.

Surgical Treatments