Shoulder Labral Tear

Shoulder labral tears can cause a variety of symptoms that may develop suddenly after an injury or gradually over time. Many patients experience:

• Deep, aching shoulder pain that worsens with overhead activities
• Shoulder instability or feeling like your shoulder might “slip out”
• Catching, clicking, or popping sensations during shoulder movement
• Pain that radiates down your arm or into your neck
• Weakness when lifting or carrying objects
• Night pain that disrupts sleep, especially when lying on the affected side
• Reduced range of motion in your shoulder joint

Symptoms may vary depending on the location and severity of your labral tear, with some patients experiencing intermittent symptoms that worsen with certain activities.

Shoulder labral tears can occur through several mechanisms, often involving both acute injuries and repetitive wear and tear. Common causes include:

Traumatic injuries: Falls onto an outstretched arm, direct blows to the shoulder, or sudden pulling motions can tear the labrum. Motor vehicle accidents and contact sports injuries are frequent culprits.

Repetitive overhead activities: Athletes in baseball, tennis, swimming, and volleyball are at higher risk due to repetitive overhead motions that gradually wear down the labrum. Workers who frequently lift overhead also face increased risk.

Age-related degeneration: As we age, the labrum naturally becomes less flexible and more prone to tearing, even from minor activities. Most people over 40 show some degree of labral wear on imaging studies.

Risk factors include being over 40, participating in overhead sports, having a previous shoulder dislocation, and poor shoulder mechanics during activities.

Our orthopedic specialists at Synergy Health Partners use a comprehensive approach to diagnose shoulder labral tears. Your evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, including specific tests that help identify labral damage.

Imaging studies are crucial for confirming the diagnosis and planning treatment. We typically recommend:

• MRI with contrast (MR arthrogram): This specialized MRI provides the clearest images of labral tears by injecting contrast dye into the joint space
• X-rays: Rule out bone injuries and assess overall joint alignment
• Ultrasound: May be used to evaluate soft tissue structures and guide injections

Our experienced radiologists work closely with your orthopedic surgeon to ensure accurate interpretation of all imaging studies, allowing for precise treatment planning.

While minor shoulder pain may resolve with rest and over-the-counter medications, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation. Contact our office if you experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain lasting more than a few days
• Shoulder instability or feeling like your joint might dislocate
• Significant weakness in your arm or shoulder
• Inability to lift your arm overhead or perform daily activities
• Numbness or tingling in your arm or fingers
• Night pain that prevents restful sleep

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain following a fall, sports injury, or accident, or if your shoulder appears deformed or you cannot move it at all. Early diagnosis and treatment of labral tears can prevent further joint damage and improve your long-term outcomes.