A labral tear is a common shoulder injury involving the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket (glenoid). The labrum acts as a cushion and stabilizer, helping the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) stay securely in place.
When the labrum becomes torn due to trauma, repetitive motion, or degeneration, it can cause pain, clicking, instability, and loss of motion in the shoulder.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options for shoulder labral tears. Patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas trust Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, for precise evaluation and individualized care that restores stability, strength, and range of motion.
The labrum is critical for maintaining shoulder stability and smooth movement. When torn, it may cause the shoulder to slip or feel “loose,” especially during overhead or rotational motions.
Types of labral tears include:
SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior)
- Occurs at the top of the shoulder socket, often involving the attachment of the biceps tendon. Common in athletes or individuals performing repetitive overhead motions.
Bankart Tear
- Involves the lower front portion of the labrum and is often linked to shoulder dislocations. Leads to instability and a higher risk of recurrent dislocations.
Posterior Labral Tear
- Less common; occurs at the back of the shoulder joint, typically from forceful impacts or pushing motions.
Labral tears may result from a single traumatic event or repetitive stress over time.
Common causes include:
- Sports injuries: Throwing, swimming, tennis, or weightlifting.
- Falls or accidents: Landing on an outstretched arm.
- Shoulder dislocation: Tears often occur during dislocation or subluxation.
- Repetitive overhead activity: Overuse from work or athletics.
- Aging and degeneration: Cartilage becomes brittle and more prone to tearing over time.
Risk factors
- Participation in contact or overhead sports
- History of shoulder instability or dislocation
- Poor shoulder mechanics or posture
- Weak rotator cuff muscles
- Age over 40 (degenerative changes in cartilage)r cuff muscles
Labral tear symptoms can be subtle at first but may worsen with activity.
Common symptoms include:
- Deep, aching pain inside the shoulder joint
- Clicking, catching, or popping sensations during movement
- Weakness or feeling that the shoulder is unstable
- Pain with overhead or throwing motions
- Loss of strength and reduced range of motion
- Shoulder “locking” or giving out
Pain may increase when reaching overhead, lifting, or lying on the affected side.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke uses advanced imaging and clinical techniques to diagnose labral injuries accurately and determine whether surgery is necessary.
Diagnostic process includes:
- Medical history: Reviewing injury details, activity level, and symptom patterns.
Physical examination
- Specialized tests (O’Brien’s, Crank, and Apprehension tests) help identify labral instability or pain triggers.
Imaging studies
- X-rays: Rule out fractures or arthritis.
- MRI or MR Arthrogram: Uses contrast dye for detailed visualization of the labrum, ligaments, and cartilage.
An accurate diagnosis helps guide the best treatment for pain relief and long-term joint health.
Treatment depends on the type, size, and severity of the tear, as well as patient age and activity level.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many partial or small labral tears improve with conservative management.
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding movements that aggravate symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: Reduces pain and swelling.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: Reduces pain and swelling.
Corticosteroid or PRP injections
- PRP Therapy uses platelet-rich plasma to promote tissue healing naturally.
- Focuses on improving range of motion and strength.
- Strengthens the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizing muscles.
- Corrects posture and shoulder mechanics.
- Anti-inflammatory medications to control swelling and discomfort.
Surgical Treatments
If the labrum is severely torn or shoulder instability persists, surgery may be required.
Dr. Burke offers state-of-the-art procedures to restore shoulder structure and function:
- Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and camera guidance.
- Torn tissue is reattached or trimmed to restore joint stability.
Bankart or SLAP Repair
- Repairs the specific type of labral tear based on injury location.
- Addresses complex cases involving multiple tissues or repeated dislocations.
Biceps Tenodesis (for SLAP tears)
- Repositions the biceps tendon to relieve pain and reduce stress on the labrum.
These procedures are designed to minimize scarring and recovery time while optimizing long-term outcomes.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery depends on whether surgery was performed and the extent of injury.
Typical recovery timelines:
- Non-surgical: 4–6 weeks for pain relief and improved motion.
- Arthroscopic repair: 3–6 months for full healing and return to activity.
- Reconstructive surgery: 6–9 months for advanced recovery and joint stabilization.
Rehabilitation goals:
- Restore shoulder motion and flexibility
- Strengthen supporting muscles
- Rebuild stability to prevent future dislocation or reinjury
- Gradually return to sport or work-related activity
Dr. Burke’s tailored rehabilitation programs focus on safe, steady recovery for each patient’s specific condition.
Most patients recover full shoulder stability and strength with appropriate care. Surgical repairs have excellent success rates when combined with dedicated rehabilitation.
Prevention tips:
- Warm up before sports or physical activity
- Strengthen rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers
- Maintain proper posture during work and exercise
- Avoid overuse and repetitive overhead strain
- Treat shoulder injuries early before instability develops
Early evaluation and consistent therapy are key to preventing recurrence.
You should schedule an orthopedic evaluation if:
- You feel your shoulder “click,” “catch,” or slip during movement
- Pain persists after rest or therapy
- Weakness or instability affects performance or work
- You’ve had a prior dislocation and symptoms have returned
Prompt treatment prevents further tearing and long-term instability.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If shoulder pain or instability is affecting your mobility, Dr. Burke Orthopedics can help.
We provide advanced, compassionate care for labral tears — from precise diagnosis to minimally invasive repair and guided rehabilitation.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering complete orthopedic expertise under one roof.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder cartilage repair and stability restoration.
