What is a Shoulder Labral Tear?

What Causes a Shoulder Labral Tear?

The labrum surrounds the shallow socket and helps keep the humeral head centered. Repeated throwing, swimming or overhead lifting can gradually overload it. A dislocation may tear the front portion, while traction on the arm or a fall may injure the upper portion.

Symptoms

• Sharp or deep shoulder pain when the arm moves above the head
• Catching, clicking or a sense that the joint briefly gets stuck
• Reduced throwing power and accuracy in overhead athletes
• A feeling that the shoulder might slip out of position

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an MRI show a labral tear?

A standard MRI may identify some tears, while MR arthrography, with contrast inside the joint, can show the labral surface in greater detail. The injury pattern, examination and imaging must be interpreted together. Load modification and rehabilitation are common first steps; selected patients may need arthroscopic repair.