What is the function of the labrum?
The labrum is a ring of fibrocartilage that surrounds the socket (glenoid) and forms a suction seal on the ball (humerus) to provide stability to the shoulder joint. Given the shallow bony socket present in the shoulder joint, the labrum is critical for forming a suction seal against the ball to increase the stability of the shoulder joint. Tears involving the labrum can occur due to a traumatic injury or from repetitive activities and cause pain, clicking, and a sense of instability with certain activities.
I was diagnosed with a torn labrum. Do I need surgery?
If you have a torn labrum, there are some important factors to consider in choosing the treatment option that is right for you. Many people are able to function normally by strengthening the rotator cuff muscles through physical therapy and modifying their daily activities to avoid placing the arm in a vulnerable position. Additionally, platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) may be utilized to augment the body’s natural healing mechanism. This is a reasonable option if you are not an avid athlete and do not feel limited in your day-to-day function.
What is the treatment for a torn labrum?
Tears that fail to heal with non-operative management are treated with surgical repair through shoulder arthroscopy with the use of bone anchors. Typically the shoulder capsule is also tightened to enhance stability.
There are certain important elements to consider when deciding which treatment option is best for you and Dr. Garabekyan will be happy to have this discussion with you.
Related Topics: Cartilage, Arthritis, Impingement, Rotator Cuff, Shoulder Arthroscopy, PRP
