What is the Labrum?
The labrum is a ring of strong, flexible cartilage that surrounds the rim of the shoulder socket (the glenoid). The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint with a socket that is naturally shallow… the labrum deepens that socket and serves as an anchor point for the ligaments and for the biceps tendon. Together, these structures keep the ball of the joint centered and stable through the shoulder’s remarkable range of motion.
A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) is a specific type of labral tear at the top of the socket, where the biceps tendon attaches.
Signs & Symptoms of a Labral Tear
Labral tears can result from a fall on an outstretched arm, a shoulder dislocation, forceful lifting, or the repetitive overhead motion of throwing and racquet sports. They can also develop gradually with wear over time. Common symptoms include:
- Deep, aching pain in the shoulder, often difficult to pinpoint
- Catching, clicking, popping, or grinding with motion
- Pain with overhead activity or throwing
- A sense of instability, or the feeling that the shoulder could slip
- Loss of strength or throwing velocity in athletes
Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions such as rotator cuff tears, an accurate diagnosis matters. An evaluation includes a history, physical examination, and imaging studies… often an MRI with contrast to visualize the labrum clearly.
Treatment for SLAP & Labral Tears
Non-surgical
- Activity modification – Temporarily limiting the motions that aggravate the tear, especially overhead activity.
- Anti-inflammatories – To reduce pain and inflammation in the joint.
- Strengthening and rehabilitation – A structured program focused on the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles can restore stability and relieve symptoms for many patients.
Surgical
When symptoms persist despite conservative care, or when the tear causes true instability, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended. Depending on the tear pattern and the patient, options include repairing the labrum back to the socket rim or addressing the biceps attachment directly. Dr. Jackson tailors the approach to your anatomy, your sport or work demands, and your goals.
Get an Accurate Diagnosis
Shoulder pain that catches, clicks, or feels unstable deserves a careful look. Schedule an appointment or call (210) 729-1900.
SLAP & Labral Tear FAQs
What does a labral tear feel like?
Common symptoms are a deep, aching pain that is hard to pinpoint, catching or clicking with motion, pain with overhead activity or throwing, a feeling that the shoulder could slip, and loss of strength or throwing velocity in athletes.
How is a labral tear diagnosed?
With a history, physical examination, and imaging studies… often an MRI with contrast, which shows the labrum clearly. Because the symptoms overlap with conditions like rotator cuff tears, an accurate diagnosis matters.
Can a labral tear improve without surgery?
Many patients improve with non-surgical care: temporarily modifying the activities that aggravate the tear, anti-inflammatories, and a structured strengthening program for the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles.
When is surgery recommended for a labral tear?
When symptoms persist despite conservative care, or when the tear causes true instability. Depending on the tear pattern, arthroscopic options include repairing the labrum back to the socket rim or addressing the biceps attachment directly.
Will I be able to get back to my sport?
That is the goal of the treatment plan. Dr. Jackson tailors the approach to your anatomy, your sport or work demands, and your goals.