What are Labral Tears?
Dr. Barry Schapiro is a board-certified Orthopedic surgeon who has been practicing in Florida since 2005. He has additional qualifications in sports medicine and is a proud practicing physician at the Advanced Ambulatory Surgery Center (AASC).
Advanced Ambulatory Surgery Center (AASC) is a Central Florida outpatient facility proud to provide physicians a stress-free and convenient surgery center experience and their patients access to quality and affordable outpatient surgical procedures. Our center specializes in Orthopedic, Spine, Neurosurgery, and Pain Management procedures. However, the facility is equipped for almost any surgery.
This article summarizes what a labral tear is, common causes, and surgical and non-surgical solutions for recovery.
What is the shoulder labrum?
A shoulder labrum is a thick piece of tissue attached to the rim of the shoulder socket that helps keep the ball of the joint in place. The labrum allows for daily stability and when torn can result in chronic instability or recurrent dislocations. This is what’s called a labral tear and is also commonly referred to as a labral degeneration.
After unexpected trauma, for example, falling on an outstretched arm may cause you to sustain an instability event or a dislocation of the shoulder causing a tear of the labrum.
After a degenerative microtrauma tear. A microtrauma occurs from chronic repetitive motions that can cause instability in the range of motion, muscle, and connective tissues. This may result in tenderness, inflammation, or swelling. Although microtraumas may not be detectable or overly painful, overuse can accelerate weakness and physical limitations.
However, this diagnosis does not require a repair and is typically done with what is called a debridement. A debridement is when dead or infected skin tissue is shaved around so just the normal tissue is surrounding the tear. This process is done arthroscopically and usually takes about an hour to complete. Although the procedure is relatively fast it is important to take into account time for pre and post-operative measures. An arthroscopic procedure allows for a relatively fast procedure, smaller incisions, and an overall speedy recovery - typically just a few weeks until you’re back to performing normal activities.
No matter the treatment plan, it is vital for you to take the necessary steps to find safe solutions for your pain. Your dedicated physician will then be able to develop a personalized plan that will enable you to feel good and move better.
In the video below, Dr. Barry Schapiro explains to viewers what a labral tear is, potential causes, and non-surgical and surgical solutions that would repair any damage, allowing you to get back to doing what you love most.
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