About shoulder labral tear
The labrum is a ring of firm tissue that lines the rim of the shoulder socket. It deepens the socket and helps anchor the biceps tendon and the joint ligaments. Tears can happen at the top of the socket, called a SLAP tear, or at the front or back, often after a dislocation.
Labral fraying is common with age and in overhead athletes, and it does not always cause symptoms. The key question is whether the shoulder feels stable. A stable shoulder with a labral tear often does well with rehab, while repeated dislocations are more likely to need surgery.
Common symptoms
- Deep, hard-to-pinpoint pain inside the shoulder
- Clicking, catching, or locking with certain movements
- A feeling that the shoulder may slip or give way
- Pain with overhead throwing or pressing
- Loss of strength or speed in overhead sports
Common causes and risk factors
- A shoulder dislocation or partial dislocation
- A fall onto an outstretched arm
- Repetitive overhead throwing or lifting
- Age-related fraying of the labrum
How we diagnose it
Dr. Chen uses a detailed exam to test stability and reproduce symptoms, and ultrasound at the exam table to check the rotator cuff, biceps tendon, and surrounding structures. Ultrasound cannot see the whole labrum, so an MRI, sometimes with contrast in the joint, is often used to confirm the tear and plan care.
How Propel treats shoulder labral tear
Treatment usually starts with a progressive rehab program that strengthens the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles and improves control of the joint. Training continues with adjustments to movements that provoke symptoms, and we help plan a gradual return to sport.
When pain continues despite rehab, Dr. Chen may offer an ultrasound-guided injection or PRP to ease pain and improve function while strengthening continues. For patients who are not suitable for surgery and do not have instability, Dr. Chen may offer joint denervation or nerve modulation treatments. Recurrent dislocations, true instability, or mechanical locking that does not settle are reasons to see a shoulder surgeon, and we help coordinate that referral.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about shoulder labral tear
- What is a SLAP tear?
- A SLAP tear is a tear of the labrum at the top of the shoulder socket, where the biceps tendon attaches. It is common in throwing athletes and people who lift heavily overhead.
- Do I need an MRI for a labral tear?
- Often, yes. Ultrasound is excellent for the tendons around the shoulder but cannot see all of the labrum. An MRI helps confirm the diagnosis, especially when surgery is being considered.
- When does a labral tear need surgery?
- Surgery is more likely when the shoulder keeps dislocating, feels unstable, or locks despite good rehab. Young athletes with a first-time dislocation may also benefit from an early surgical opinion.