Understanding Labral Tear
What patients commonly notice
Damage to the cartilage rim of the shoulder socket may cause pain, catching, clicking or instability. The exact pattern and severity can vary, so a clinical assessment is important before deciding on treatment.
Common symptoms
- Deep shoulder pain with overhead activity
- Clicking, catching or a dead-arm sensation
- Reduced performance or a sense of instability
Causes and risk factors
There may be more than one contributing factor. Common possibilities include:
- A fall onto an outstretched arm
- Forceful lifting or traction
- Repetitive overhead sport or age-related wear
How is labral tear assessed?
Assessment usually considers pain, strength, stability and both active and passive shoulder movement. X-rays, ultrasound or MRI may be requested when they will help clarify the diagnosis or guide treatment.
Treatment options
Treatment is matched to the diagnosis, symptom severity, general health and the activities you need to return to. Options may include:
- Activity modification and targeted rehabilitation
- Medication or a selected diagnostic injection
- Arthroscopic repair or biceps treatment for appropriate persistent lesions
Surgery is not automatically the first step. When it is considered, the likely benefit, alternatives and recovery requirements should be discussed clearly.
Common questions
Does a clicking shoulder mean that I have a labral tear?
No. Painless clicking is common. A labral tear is more likely when deep pain, catching, instability or loss of performance occurs with a compatible injury and examination.
Can a shoulder labral tear improve with physiotherapy?
Many patients improve by restoring shoulder-blade control, rotator-cuff strength and movement patterns. Surgery is considered when meaningful symptoms persist and the tear is thought to be the pain generator.
Will a normal MRI rule out a labral tear?
Not completely. Labral findings can be subtle, and some tears seen on imaging cause no symptoms. The scan must be interpreted together with the history and examination.
This page provides general patient information and does not replace a consultation or personalised medical advice.