

James C. Cassandra, DO
Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon
Shoulder pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages and lifestyles. Whether you’re an athlete, manual laborer, or office worker, shoulder pain can limit your ability to perform even the simplest tasks. One possible cause of shoulder pain is a shoulder labrum tear, which can occur as a result of injury or overuse.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect you may have a shoulder labrum tear, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. At OrthoNeuro, our experienced team can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get on the path to recovery. We have multiple locations within Columbus, OH for your convenience.
The labrum is a piece of fibrous cartilage that surrounds the edge of the shoulder socket, providing support and cushioning for the joint. It acts as a bumper, preventing the ball of the humerus from slipping out of the socket. The labrum also serves as an attachment point for important structures such as the biceps tendon.
The shoulder labrum plays a critical role in allowing us to perform everyday activities and sports that require overhead movements.
The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile and complex joints in the body, allowing for a wide range of motion. The shoulder joint is made up of the upper arm bone (humerus), the shoulder blade (scapula), and the collarbone (clavicle). However, to maintain stability and support, it also relies on the labrum.
The biceps tendon attaches to the superior labrum, the top portion of the labrum, and helps to stabilize the joint during overhead movements. When the biceps tendon contracts, it pulls on the labrum, helping to keep the humerus in place.
A shoulder labrum tear refers to a tear or injury to the labrum, which is a piece of cartilage that helps hold the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket.
There are several types of shoulder labrum tears, including:
A torn shoulder labrum, including tears in the superior labrum, can result from a variety of factors, including trauma, repetitive overhead activities, age-related wear and tear, genetic factors, and structural abnormalities.
Understanding the causes of shoulder labrum tears can help individuals take steps to prevent them and seek appropriate treatment when necessary.
Symptoms of a shoulder labrum tear can include:
A torn shoulder labrum can be diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests.
During a physical exam, a healthcare professional will examine the shoulder joint for signs of a torn labrum. They may move the arm into different positions to assess the range of motion, stability, and strength. They may also perform specific tests, such as the O’Brien test or the anterior slide test, to check for labral tears.
The healthcare professional will ask questions about the individual’s symptoms, including when they started, how severe they are, and what activities make them worse. They will also ask about any previous shoulder injuries or surgeries, as well as any medical conditions that may contribute to the development of a torn labrum.
Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis of a torn labrum. X-rays can show any bone abnormalities or bony changes around the shoulder joint, while an MRI can provide more detailed images of the soft tissues, such as the labrum, muscles, and tendons.
The treatment for a torn shoulder labrum can depend on the severity of the tear and the individual’s overall health. Here are some common methods for treating a torn labrum:
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or instability, you may be suffering from a labrum tear. At OrthoNeuro, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of labrum tears. Schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Columbus, OH today to learn how we can help you get back to a pain-free, active lifestyle.
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