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Understanding Glenoid Labral Tears: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options at Spectrum Healthcare North Ryde

The shoulder joint is built for mobility, but this flexibility can sometimes cause injuries like glenoid labral tears. At Spectrum Healthcare North Ryde, we specialise in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries, including labral tears, to help you recover strength and movement. If you're experiencing shoulder pain or instability, understanding glenoid labral tears and your treatment options is important.

Who is at Risk of Glenoid Labral Tears?

Glenoid labral tears are common among:

• Athletes, especially those involved in overhead or contact sports such as baseball, volleyball, swimming, and football, face increased risk due to repetitive shoulder movements and trauma.
• Young adults (20–40 years): Active lifestyles and occupational demands involving lifting or repetitive arm motions put them at higher risk.
• Older adults (over 40): Degenerative changes can weaken the labrum over time, leading to tears.
• Individuals with shoulder instability: Those with prior dislocations or subluxations are more prone to labral injuries.

How Do Glenoid Labral Tears Occur?

The labrum enhances shoulder stability by deepening the socket and anchoring ligaments and muscles. Tears can happen through:

• Trauma: Falls on an outstretched arm, direct blows, or shoulder dislocations.
• Repetitive stress: Activities like overhead sports or manual labour (painting, carpentry).
• Degeneration: Wear and tear due to aging.

Types of Glenoid Labral Tears

• SLAP Tears (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior): Damage at the top of the labrum from overhead motions or trauma.
• Bankart Tears: Fractures at the front of the labrum associated with shoulder dislocations.
• Posterior Labral Tears: Less common, often from trauma or repetitive stress behind the shoulder.

Symptoms of a Glenoid Labral Tear

Signs vary depending on severity but often include:

• Deep shoulder pain, especially with overhead activities
• Catching, popping, or locking sensations
• Feeling of shoulder slipping or instability
• Limited range of motion
• Weakness during lifting or throwing
• Clicking or grinding sounds

Early diagnosis is vital, as symptoms may mimic other shoulder conditions.

Severity and Diagnosis

While labral tears aren’t officially graded, they are classified based on extent:

• Minor fraying: Small, degenerative tears
• Partial tears: Incomplete tears causing discomfort
• Complete tears: Full detachment, leading to instability
• Complex tears: Multiple areas involved, often requiring specialised treatment

Imaging techniques like MRI scans assist healthcare providers in determining severity.

When is Surgery Recommended?

Surgical intervention, such as arthroscopic repair, may be considered if:

• Pain persists after 3–6 months of conservative treatment
• Recurrent shoulder dislocations or significant instability
• Athletes needing a quick return to sports