Labrum Injury & Repair Surgery

The labrum is the ring of cartilage which lines the perimeter of the shoulder joint. This layer of cartilage is important for joint function. The ligaments and tendons keep the ball centered in the socket and attach to the labrum. A disruption of the labrum can lead to instability and pain in the shoulder.

After overuse or a shoulder injury, the labrum can tear. Without the correct cushioning, the shoulder joint can “catch” or stick. Fluid shoulder movement is inhibited and shoulder pain can result.

A tear in the labrum can cause shoulder discomfort. The symptoms associated with a labrum tear are similar to the symptoms of other shoulder injuries:

• A grinding sensation in the shoulder
• Pain during shoulder movement
• Weakened shoulder strength

If physical therapy fails to relieve symptoms, surgery can offer an additional option.  Surgery repairing a torn labrum may relieve those undesirable symptoms. Labrum repair surgery is usually performed arthroscopically.

Physical therapy is usually used after a labrum surgery. Depending on the nature of the injury, patients can return to normal activity 3 to 4 months after surgery.