Labral Tear(Glenoid Labrum Tear; Labral Tear, Shoulder)Pronounced: Lay-bral Tear, Shoulder
by
Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN DefinitionA shoulder labral tear is tear of the labrum. The labrum is the tissue that helps hold the end of the arm bone, known as the humerus, in place.
Causes TOPShoulder labral tears occur from an injury or through long-term wear and tear. Common causes include the following:
Risk Factors TOPFactors that may increase your chance of a labral tear include:
Symptoms TOPSymptoms may include:
Diagnosis TOPYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Imaging tests to evaluate the shoulder and surrounding structures may include: Treatment TOPTalk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. You will likely be referred to a specialist such as an orthopedic surgeon. Treatment options include the following: Medical Treatment
Generally, this treatment is tried for several weeks. If there is no improvement, surgery is considered. The doctor may also inject a steroid directly into the shoulder to decrease inflammation and pain. Surgical TreatmentIn a shoulder arthroscopy, a surgeon inserts a thin, lighted tube through a small incision to view the injury and fix it. Small instruments are threaded through this tube. The torn ligament/tissue may be removed or sewn together. Wires or tacks may also be used to reattach any torn tendons. After surgery, a sling will need to be worn. When the sling is removed, a physical therapist can help to gradually strengthen the arm muscles and increase motion. Prevention TOPTo help reduce your chance of a shoulder labral tear:
RESOURCES:Arthroscopy Association of North America http://www.aana.org Ortho Info—American Academy
of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org References:Labral Tears. Internet Society of Orthopaedic Surgery & Trauma website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated September 4, 2015. Accessed August 24, 2017. Shoulder Joint Tear (Glenoid Labrum Tear). American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated January 2001. Accessed August 24, 2017. What is a labrum/labral tear? Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 24, 2017. Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM Last Updated: 11/21/2013 | |
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