Labrum

What is a labrum?

The labrum is a protective rim of cartilage in ball and socket joints (your shoulder and hip) that provides cushioning, stability, and a full range of motion in these joints. 

Labrum injuries can happen due to overuse or dislocation and often cause painful labral tears. They might occur playing sports, lifting something heavy, or falling down.

What are the symptoms of labrum injuries?

If you have a labrum injury, you might experience the following signs and symptoms:

• Catching or locking of your shoulder or hip joint
• Chronic joint pain
• Stiffness
• Limited range of motion
• Joint instability
• Dislocation
• Joint popping or grinding
• Shoulder or hip weakness

Complications associated with labral tears include long-lasting pain, limited joint mobility, and an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis in the future.

How is a labrum injury diagnosed and treated?

Dr. Chao or Dr. Gargulinski diagnose shoulder or hip labral tears using a physical examination and advanced imaging, such as an MRI. Depending on your symptoms and the severity of your injury, your doctor might recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Conservative treatments

You might recover from a labral injury in a few weeks’ time with conservative treatments, such as ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If not, your doctor recommends additional solutions to help you heal and ease pain.

Medications

Your orthopedic specialist might suggest medications or injections to help relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation associated with a labrum injury.

Physical therapy

A physical therapist teaches you exercises to strengthen your shoulder or hip joint, improve range of motion and stability, and ease pain.

PRP therapy

Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) uses platelets from your own blood to stimulate new cell growth and enhance healing. Your doctor takes a sample of your blood, spins it in a centrifuge, and injects into the injured area.

Surgical options

In some cases, arthroscopic surgery is the best option to trim, remove, or repair labral tissue. Your orthopedic surgeon utilizes the most advanced surgical equipment, and an arthroscopic approach using tiny incisions to decrease bleeding and recovery time.

Don’t let shoulder or hip pain associated with a labral tear inhibit your mobility and reduce your quality of living. Schedule a consultation with the orthopedic specialists at OasisMD today or use the online booking tool.