Shoulder Labrum Tear Symptoms & Treatment | Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia | MedStar Health

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What is a shoulder labrum tear?

A labrum tear shoulder, also referred to as a glenoid labrum tear, shoulder joint tear, or noted of by specific types of labrum tears SLAP (Superior Labrum, Anterior to Posterior), can cause pain, limit your range of motion, and prevent you from doing everyday tasks. It occurs when the ring of cartilage surrounding the outer portion of the shoulder socket—or labrum—tears as a result of high stress or overuse. These tears are common among athletes and those who use the shoulder for repetitive activities, such as weightlifting or throwing.

A torn labrum can cause pain, limit your range of motion, and prevent you from doing everyday tasks. At our MedStar Orthopedic Institute, our experienced shoulder surgeons perform thousands of surgeries each year, including shoulder repair surgery. We pride ourselves on offering the least invasive surgical options to help you recover quickly from surgery and return to your regular life faster. Our surgeons take the time to explain your unique condition and walk you through your shoulder labrum tear treatment from beginning to end. We will always encourage non-surgical options when possible and recommend surgical options only when necessary. You can visit any of our specialized experts in the Washington D.C., Baltimore, Maryland, or northern Virginia areas for care.

Shoulder labrum tear symptoms

You should visit an orthopedic specialist if you are suffering from any of these common symptoms of a labral tear:

  • Shoulder pain, especially when reaching up
  • Shoulder popping, locking up, or grinding
  • Pain when moving the arm, especially overhead
  • Loss of range of motion in the shoulder
  • Feeling of looseness or shoulder instability
  • Limited shoulder strength
  • Pain in the shoulder while sleeping

Torn labrum shoulder causes

A labral tear in the shoulder can occur due to any of the following:

  • Repetitive sports movements
    • Throwing
    • Weightlifting
    • Golfing
  • Direct blow to the shoulder
  • Lifting heavy objects
  • Falling on an outstretched arm

Diagnoses of a labrum tear shoulder

At the first signs of a labrum tear, you should speak with an orthopedic specialist. MedStar Health is home to experts in a wide range of shoulder conditions who have years of experience diagnosing and treating shoulder conditions. Your initial exam will likely include the following:

  • Medical history evaluation – Your physician will discuss your medical history with you and any relevant prior shoulder problems.
  • Physical exam – Your doctor will evaluate the affected shoulder area and may ask you questions about where you are feeling pain or discomfort.
  • Imaging tests – Your orthopedist will also likely conduct an X-ray to rule out a fracture. A CT or MRI scan may be necessary to accurately diagnose you.

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Emergency Medicine
Labral Tears
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Shoulder Injuries
Sports Medicine
Shoulder Surgery