Labral Tear Treatment From Shoulder Specialists Practicing Near Jackson, NJ

Athletic man on running trail holding his painful shoulder

A labral tear is a common shoulder injury, particularly among pitchers, weightlifters, tennis players, and anyone else who performs repetitive overhead arm movements. The injury affects the labrum, a thick ring of fibrous tissue attached to the rim of the shoulder socket. The labrum secures the end of the upper arm bone (humeral head) firmly in place. In addition to overuse, a labral tear can result from blunt force trauma to the shoulder.

Because shoulder pain can have many causes, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis to ensure appropriate treatment. The outstanding team at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) near Jackson, New Jersey, includes board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons who specialize in evaluating and treating painful shoulder injuries and conditions. If you think you might have a labral tear, you can feel confident when you entrust your care to AOSMI.

What Are the Symptoms of a Labral Tear?

Two common types of labral tears are the SLAP (superior labral tear from anterior to posterior) and the Bankart tear. The symptoms, which can vary depending on the location and severity of the damage, may include:

  • A dull, throbbing ache deep within the shoulder joint
  • Shoulder pain that disrupts sleep
  • A catching sensation during movement
  • Recurrent shoulder dislocations

The pain may intensify with strenuous exertion or even daily activities. Athletes may notice a loss of strength or a significant decline in throwing ability.

How Is a Shoulder Labral Tear Treated?

At AOSMI, we typically prefer to begin with a conservative approach. Many of our patients do well with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy, including exercises designed to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and gently stretch the back of the shoulder. If non-surgical treatment does not produce the desired result, we may suggest a surgical alternative, such as shoulder arthroscopy. During this minimally invasive procedure, the surgeon accesses the shoulder joint through tiny incisions and uses special surgical instruments to reattach the torn edges of the labrum.

If you would like to consult with a shoulder specialist at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center near Jackson, NJ, contact us today to schedule an appointment.