The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint. A torn labrum (a lip of cartilage along the edge of the socket helps to keep the ball in place) typically results from a direct injury to the shoulder. Falls or the wear and tear from repetitive activities are common causes of this injury.

Symptoms of a labral tear in the shoulder include:

• Deep, achy pain in the shoulder
• Feeling that your shoulder could pop out of place
• Pain that worsens with overhead motions, such as serving a tennis ball
• Popping, clicking, or grinding in your shoulder joint
• Weakness in your shoulder

If you think you may have experienced a labral tear, doctors at the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute can treat it and help reduce your pain.

Tests

Physical examination
Your doctor will conduct a complete physical examination and collect your health history to help make the diagnosis.

Treatments

Ice treatment
Your doctor may recommend that you apply ice to your shoulder three to four times each day.

Pain medication
Your specialist may prescribe anti-inflammatory or other pain medication to help control the pain of your labral tear while you’re undergoing treatment.

Physical therapy
In most cases, your healthcare provider will prescribe rehabilitation therapy. Our physical therapists establish a unique plan of care that includes specific interventions for your condition and situation to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Surgery
If your labral tear is not responsive to other treatments, you may need to undergo surgery. Your sports medicine team will work with you to explain your options if surgery is needed

Why Choose the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute?

World-class care in an academic health system. As a research and teaching institution, we treat children and adults with proven, leading-edge procedures based on clinical studies performed at the Miller School of Medicine. Our doctors, residents, nurses, and therapists work together to create healthy outcomes.