Reviewed by Dr. Jon Warner(Otherwise known as a Labral Tear)
The shoulder is the junction of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the clavicle (collarbone), and scapula (shoulder blade). The ball-like head of the humerus fits into the cup-like end of the scapula known as the glenoid. This junction is commonly referred to as the shoulder socket, and is held together partially by the labrum, a rim of soft tissue that surrounds the glenoid. The head of the humerus may be forced out of the glenoid in a dislocation or can be forced partially out of the glenoid, which is known as a subluxation. Either may cause a Bankart lesion, a tear to the glenoid.
Symptoms
The patient will feel symptoms of a dislocation or rotator cuff tear, as one of the two will be the cause of the Bankart Lesion and an over-riding stimulus of pain. Causes and Risk Factors
Causes
Excess motion of the humerus within the glenoid by repeated throwing or similar motions may cause the labrum to tear. An acute injury, often resulting from a fall on an outstretched hand, can cause the condition as well.Risk Factors
Frequent anterior (frontward) subluxation or acute dislocation pose the greatest risk for tear of the glenoid rim.
Treatment
Immediate Action
Since a labral tear usually accompanies a shoulder ailment such as subluxation or dislocation, follow the first aid directives for those conditions if pain persists. If the condition is not painful, but the catching sensation does not stop, take ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce swelling and schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist. Use medicines only as directed. Procedures
If the problem persists, an orthopedic surgeon may decide to remove or repair part of the labrum arthroscopically or through an open-shoulder procedure. While operating on the shoulder, he or she may stabilize the shoulder through arthroscopic, thermal, or an open-shoulder approach.
Medications
Non-prescription drugs, as directed by doctor.
Prevention
Strengthening the area around the shoulder, especially the rotator cuff muscles, makes for greater shoulder stability, and, thus, a reduced risk of a Bankart Lesion. Walking on slippery floors and improper falling also raise the risk of a labral-tearing injury and should be avoided.
Last updated: 14-Nov-00
