A labrum is the rim of soft tissue and cartilage around the ball and socket joint that holds it in place and makes it more stable. When it becomes damaged in the shoulder – like in a glenoid labrum tear, patients experience pain and/or the feeling that the shoulder is dislocated and slipping out of place.
Those with labral injuries may not feel pain all the time. It may flare up during exercise or repetitive activity. In general, those with labral tears or injuries feel pain, loss of range of motion, reduced strength, and instability in the shoulder.
Shoulder stabilisation injuries can occur due to chronic shoulder dislocations, repetitive overuse of the shoulder, falls, or accidents. Labral repair procedures are typically performed through arthroscopy, via key-hole or small incisions by a surgeon.
During the procedure, small suture anchors may be placed in the labrum to secure it back to the socket (glenoid) and fix other torn tissues or ligaments.
This procedure stabilises the torn labrum in the shoulder to improve functionality in the joint and eliminate shoulder pain. It is performed under general anaesthesia and patients can usually go home the same day. The results of the procedure will be discussed with you when you wake up or in a follow-up appointment.
You may experience pain and swelling for the first few weeks, but it should get better over time. Once the shoulder has healed, you should attend physiotherapy sessions (as prescribed by your orthopedist) to build strength and improve functionality in the shoulder.
Work closely with your orthopaedist and follow their recommendations for exercises and activities for the best results. Your orthopaedist can give you a better idea of what to expect based on your individual needs and circumstances.
Dr Puah KL is our Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Artisan Sports & Orthopaedic Surgery. He used to serve the sports service of Singapore General Hospital - the highest volume trauma centre for orthopaedics in Singapore.
