At OALI, our board-certified specialists have been helping patients like you find relief for over 25 years. Understanding the three main types of labral tears—SLAP tears, Bankart tears, and Posterior labrum tears—is an important first step toward feeling like yourself again. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Labral Tears?
Acting as a stabilizer, the labrum is a ring of cartilage that ensures the upper arm bone remains firmly positioned in the shoulder socket. When this cartilage is torn, it can lead to symptoms such as pain, clicking or popping sounds, shoulder instability, or reduced range of motion. Labral tears commonly result from repetitive overhead movements, traumatic falls, or shoulder dislocations.
The Three Types of Labral Tears
1: SLAP Tear
The Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) tear occurs at the top of the shoulder joint, where the labrum attaches to the biceps tendon. It typically results from repetitive overhead motions, such as pitching, or from abrupt trauma.
Individuals with a SLAP tear may experience pain during movement, clicking sounds, weakness in the shoulder, or difficulty lifting objects.
2: Bankart Tear
A Bankart tear involves damage to the lower part of the labrum, often resulting from a shoulder dislocation. This type of tear is particularly common among younger individuals and athletes who engage in high-impact activities. Symptoms include shoulder instability, recurring dislocations, and difficulty performing overhead movements.
3: Posterior Labrum Tear
A Posterior labrum tear, the least common type, occurs at the back of the shoulder socket. It is usually caused by falls, heavy lifting, or trauma from pushing motions. Signs of this condition include a dull ache in the shoulder, pain during activities that involve pushing or bearing weight, and noticeable joint instability.
Finding Relief: Treatment Options for Labral Tears
Labral tear treatment is tailored to the severity of the injury and the patient’s individual circumstances. Conservative approaches, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, and activity modifications, are often successful in managing mild to moderate tears. For more severe injuries or cases unresponsive to these measures, surgical repair may be required to fully restore shoulder function and stability.
At OALI, we utilize cutting-edge diagnostic tools and customized treatment strategies to empower patients to reclaim their strength, improve mobility, and achieve lasting recovery.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery in NY
If shoulder pain is holding you back, don’t wait to seek professional care. At OALI, we provide expert treatment for labral tears and other shoulder injuries. With locations in East Setauket, Commack, Patchogue, Riverhead, Southampton, Wading River, West Babylon, and Centereach, NY, relief is closer than you think.
Contact us today at 631-689-6698 to schedule your consultation and start your journey to recovery!
