Shoulder Labral Tear: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Options

Shoulder labral tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and instability—especially in athletes and active adults. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the shoulder joint; when torn, it can lead to clicking, catching, weakness, and difficulty with overhead activity.

At Comprehensive Orthopedic & Spine Care, Dr. Joseph E. Weinstein, DO—a shoulder specialist—provides expert diagnosis and treatment, from non-surgical care to minimally invasive arthroscopic labral repair.

What Is a Labral Tear?

• The shoulder labrum deepens the socket (glenoid), helping stabilize the ball-and-socket joint.
• Tears can occur from falls, repetitive overhead motions, dislocation, or degeneration.
• Common types:
  • SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior)
  • Bankart tear (anterior/inferior labrum—often from dislocation)
  • Posterior labral tear (less common; often from repetitive loading)

Symptoms

• Deep shoulder pain or aching
• Clicking, popping, or catching with motion
• Weakness in overhead activities or reaching behind
• Feeling of instability or “slipping”
• Reduced range of motion, especially with throwing or lifting

Causes & Risk Factors

• Sports: baseball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, weightlifting
• Traumatic events: falls, collisions, shoulder dislocation
• Repetitive overhead work or exercise
• Age-related wear and tear

Diagnosis

• Detailed physical exam focusing on shoulder stability and labral-specific tests
• Imaging:
  • X-ray to rule out fractures or arthritis
  • MRI or MR arthrogram to visualize labral tears
• When needed, diagnostic arthroscopy can confirm the tear and treat it in the same procedure

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Care

• Activity modification and rest
• Physical therapy to restore shoulder mechanics and rotator cuff strength
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Targeted injections (corticosteroid) for pain and inflammation

Surgical Care (When Needed)

• Arthroscopic labral repair for unstable or persistent tears
• SLAP repair or biceps tenodesis (depending on tear type and age/activity)
• Bankart repair for instability following dislocation
• Debridement for frayed tissue in select cases

Recovery & Rehabilitation

• Sling support for 2–4 weeks (procedure-dependent)
• Early passive motion to protect the repair, followed by active range of motion
• Progressive strengthening at 6–12 weeks
• Return to sport/work typically 3–6+ months depending on tear type and activity

When to See a Shoulder Specialist

• Ongoing shoulder pain >2–3 weeks
• Recurrent dislocations or feeling of instability
• Pain with overhead activity, plus clicking/catching
• Failure of home care or recurring injuries

Why Choose Comprehensive Orthopedic & Spine Care

• Shoulder-focused expertise from Dr. Joseph E. Weinstein, DO
• Advanced imaging and minimally invasive arthroscopy
• Personalized rehab plans for athletes and active adults
• Same-day appointments available in Queens (including Rego Park), Valley Stream, Englewood, and across the NYC metro

Take the Next Step

If you suspect a shoulder labral tear, schedule a consultation with Dr. Weinstein today. Early diagnosis and treatment help restore stability, prevent further damage, and get you back to the activities you love.