Labrum Tear

The labrum is a cartilage ring that surrounds the shoulder socket (called the glenoid) and makes it deeper. Since the socket is deepened by the labrum, the ball of the arm bone (called the head of the humerus) has a better fit into it. The labrum gives stability to the joint and also helps to cushion as the shoulder joint moves.

Labrum or labral tears are usually associated with trauma, instability of the shoulder, or repetitive throwing as with a baseball player.  Sometimes, a labrum tear can be involved when the rotator cuff is torn. A common tear is called a SLAP lesion (Superior Labral tear from Anterior to Posterior). This is a tear of the labrum from the top part in front to back. This often needs surgical repair and we work with your physician on their protocol to rehab your shoulder after surgery.

How physical therapy helps

Most often, labral tears are fixed surgically and need physical therapy after the procedure. We work very closely with your physician to follow their protocols for rehabilitation to your shoulder. Physical therapy involves a progress of your range of motion per the protocol and towards the end restoring motion. In the meantime, pain, swelling and function are addressed.