Labral Tear of the Shoulder

The labrum is a piece of fibrocartilage (rubbery tissue) attached to the rim of the shoulder socket that helps keep the ball of the joint in place. When this cartilage is torn, it is called a labral tear. Labral tears may result from injury, or sometimes as part of the aging process. Symptoms and treatment vary depending on the type and severity of the tear.

Key Points:

• A labral tear can be hard to diagnose. Clinicians will perform a physical examination and usually order X-rays and an MRI, but the most reliable way is through arthroscopy of the shoulder (a surgical procedure).
• Treatment for a labral tear can include restricted rest, physical therapy or surgery, depending on the needs of the individual and severity of the injury.