A labral tear is a type of injury that occurs when the labrum, a piece of fibrocartilage that lines the rim of the shoulder or hip joint, becomes damaged or torn.
The labrum helps to stabilise the joint by deepening the socket and providing a surface for the joint capsule and ligaments to attach to. When the labrum is torn, it can cause pain, instability and weakness in the affected joint.
Symptoms of a labral tear can include pain, clicking or popping sensations, weakness, and a feeling of instability or catching in the affected joint. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans.
Labral tears may happen due to a variety of reasons, including trauma or injury, degeneration over time or repetitive overuse. In the shoulder, labral tears are commonly associated with overhead sports like baseball or swimming, while in the hip, they are often associated with activities that involve twisting or pivoting like dance or soccer.
Physiotherapy can help you recover from a labral tear, helping you to regain comfort and mobility.
Treatment for a labral tear may depend on the severity of the tear and the underlying cause. Conservative treatments like physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation and improve joint function.
In cases where conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged tissue. Rehabilitation following surgery may include a combination of physiotherapy and exercises to restore strength and mobility to the affected joint.
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