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Shoulder

Shoulder Instability

What is a Shoulder Labral Tear?

The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). The head of the humerus sits in a shallow socket in the scapula called the glenoid. The labrum surrounds the glenoid, deepening it and providing a better fit for the humeral head. The labrum also serves as an attachment point for several ligaments and the biceps tendon.

A shoulder labral tear is a type of injury to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. The labrum helps to stabilize the shoulder and provides a socket for the humeral head (top of the upper arm bone). When this cartilage is torn, it can lead to shoulder instability, where the shoulder joint becomes loose and may slip out of place, causing a dislocation.

Specializing in diagnosing and managing shoulder labrum tears, Dr. Ben Mayo is a highly respected shoulder surgeon serving the Detroit area. He is known for his patient-centered approach and commitment to delivering top-tier care. Reach out to schedule your appointment at either his Livonia or Sterling Heights office and start your journey towards recovery.

Shoulder labral tears can happen due to acute trauma, such as a fall on an outstretched arm, a direct hit to the shoulder, or a sudden pull. They can also occur as a result of repetitive shoulder motion, as seen in athletes involved in sports such as baseball, swimming, or weightlifting. In some cases, labral tears may be a part of the aging process.

Symptoms of a shoulder labral tear may include a deep aching sensation in the shoulder joint, catching or popping with movement, shoulder instability, and decreased range of motion and strength. If the tear occurs in the upper part of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches, you might also experience biceps pain.

While some labral tears can improve with rest, physical therapy, and pain management, others may require surgical intervention for complete healing, especially when associated with shoulder instability.

Diagnosis involves a physical examination where the physician will assess your range of motion, strength, and stability. Imaging tests like X-ray or MRI can provide further details. Sometimes, a special type of MRI called an MR arthrogram is used, where a contrast dye is injected into the shoulder before the scan to better visualize the labrum tear.

Schedule a shoulder consultation

For advanced and individualized care for shoulder labrum tears and instability, trust in the expertise of Dr. Ben Mayo. As a fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon, Dr. Mayo is committed to providing you with the most effective and up-to-date treatment plans for shoulder instability. His clinics in Livonia, Sterling Heights, and Troy cater to the Detroit area, including communities such as Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, Novi, and Royal Oak. Contact his office today to schedule a consultation.

At a Glance

Ben Mayo, MD

  • Board-Certified, Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
  • Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
  • Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
  • Learn more
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