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Shoulder Labral Repair

Shoulder labral tears are a common source of discomfort and instability in the shoulder joint. These injuries can impact your ability to move your upper arm bone and shoulder effectively, causing pain and limiting daily activities.

At Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, in Austin, Texas, we specialize in shoulder and sports medicine. If you’re dealing with persistent shoulder pain or suspect a torn shoulder labrum, schedule a consultation with our fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon today!

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What Patients Are Saying

“I was very pleased with my experience of my shoulder surgery. My pain was easily managed and I’m looking forward to getting back on the golf course. Dr. Szerlip was easy going and you can tell he loves his job and cares about you!” — Melody G. 

Understanding Labral Tears

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket (glenoid), providing stability and cushioning for the upper arm bone (humerus) as it moves. Labral tears occur when this cartilage becomes damaged due to injury, overuse, or aging.

A doctor examining a patient with persistent shoulder pain caused by a torn labrum in Austin, Texas.

Common Types of Labral Tears

It is common for the labrum to tear in the following areas:

  1. SLAP Tears (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior): These occur at the top of the labrum, where it connects to the biceps tendon. SLAP tears are often seen in athletes or those involved in repetitive overhead motions.
  2. Bankart Tears: Typically associated with shoulder dislocations, these tears affect the front lower portion of the labrum.
  3. Posterior Labral Tears: These occur at the back of the labrum and are less common, usually seen in athletes or individuals who experience repetitive shoulder strain.

What Does a Torn Labrum Feel Like?

A torn labrum can cause a range of symptoms, including:

  • Persistent shoulder pain, especially during movement or at night.
  • A clicking, popping, or grinding sensation in the shoulder.
  • Weakness or instability in the shoulder joint.
  • Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
 

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon like Dr. Szerlip can diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment plan.

What Procedure is Used to Repair a Torn Labrum?

Shoulder labral repair is commonly performed using arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive technique. During the procedure:

  1. A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the shoulder to visualize the damage.
  2. Specialized instruments are used to trim, repair, or reattach the labrum tears to the bone.
  3. For SLAP tears, the surgeon may need to re-anchor the biceps tendon.
 

This precise approach minimizes tissue damage and promotes quicker recovery compared to open surgery.

Candidates for Shoulder Labral Repair

You may be a good candidate for surgical repair if:

  • Conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and medications, have not relieved your shoulder pain.
  • You experience frequent shoulder dislocations or instability.
  • Imaging shows a significant shoulder labrum tear, such as a SLAP tear or Bankart tear.
  • You are an athlete or active individual looking to regain full function of your shoulder joint.

What to Expect After the Surgery

After shoulder labral repair, patients can expect:

  • Immobilization: Your arm will likely be put in a sling to protect the repaired labrum for 2 to 6 weeks.
  • Pain management: Medication and ice packs will help control post-surgical discomfort.
  • Follow-up appointments: Regular visits with your surgeon will monitor healing progress.

Recovery Process

Recovering from labral tear surgery requires patience and dedication. Rehabilitation follows these steps:

  1. First 2 – 4 weeks: You’ll wear a sling to limit arm movement and allow the torn shoulder labrum to heal.
  2. Physical therapy: Gradual exercises will help rebuild strength and restore mobility. You will begin with passive range-of-motion exercises. When the sling comes off, you will continue to work on mobility and gradually improve strength.
  3. Return to activity: Most patients can resume light activities within 3 months, with a full recovery expected in 4-6 months.
 

Dr. Szerlip and his team will provide a personalized recovery plan, ensuring you regain optimal shoulder function and return to your normal activities safely.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re struggling with the effects of a shoulder labrum tear, Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, is here to help. As a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon in Austin, TX, Dr. Szerlip specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like labrum tears and more.

Take the first step toward pain relief and restored shoulder function. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about shoulder labral repair options tailored to your needs!

Medically reviewed by Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO

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  1. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/shoulder-joint-tear-glenoid-labrum-tear/