Physical Therapy for a Labral Tear in Kansas City
Shoulder labral tears are common in many overhead athletes, but can also affect a broad scope of individuals.
Labral tears of the shoulder involve tearing to the ring-like cartilage structure of the shoulder socket. The shoulder labrum not only adds stability to the joint but also helps to provide a cushion to the shoulder with activity. Repetitive activities especially overhead and movements that require quick force through the shoulder can cause labral tears. We often see shoulder labral tears in athletes, such as baseball/softball players, volleyball players and swimmers, but it is a condition that can affect a broad scope of people at varying ages – even in the absence of a traumatic event. Shoulder labral tears can also be seen in middle aged adults due to degeneration and fraying overtime.
Labral Tear Symptoms
- Sharp pain when raising the arm
- Sharp pain with rotation of the affected shoulder
- Locking or catching sensations in the shoulder
- Referred pain to the front or outside of the affected arm
- Stiffness and a limited range of motion in the shoulder
- Instability and a feeling of weakness in the shoulder
Treatment of a Labral Tear
Many individuals with shoulder labral tears can benefit from non-invasive physical therapy, and this type of injury does not always require surgery. Treatment interventions involve soft tissue therapy, such as ART or dry needling, to the muscles around the shoulder, scapula, back and chest; targeted flexibility exercises to restore any lost range of motion without aggravating symptoms, motor control exercises, and strengthening exercises to restore muscular imbalances that are often present with this condition. If your injury was severe enough to require a surgical repair, our team of physical therapists at F.I.T. Muscle & Joint Clinic still incorporates these thorough treatments and are ready to partner with you in your post-surgical rehab to maximize your surgical outcomes!
Treatment of Labral Tears at F.I.T.
After a thorough evaluation, our doctors will tailor a physical therapy treatment plan unique to your situation and your goals. In addition to the treatments outlined above, the team at F.I.T. Muscle & Joint Clinic emphasizes re-educating and correcting movement patterns that often place undo stress on the shoulder joint and subsequently, the shoulder labrum.
A main area of focus with our patients is working on building control, coordination, and strength in shoulder and scapular region while also correcting proper rhythm and timing between two. Core stabilization is an important aspect when dealing with a shoulder labral tear, as it provides a stable base from which the arm can function and move. Our treatment process is comprehensive to cause a lasting change for better long term results.
Possible Treatments for labral tears
For post surgical check out our chiropractic services for shoulder labral tears.
Active Release Technique
Active Release Technique (A.R.T) is one of the leading soft tissue therapies for the treatment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves.
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Rehabilitation Exercises
Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Exercise that favors quality movements over quantity of reps is key to restoring proper function.
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Dry Needling
Dry Needling is the process of using a thin needle inserted into a trigger point to relieve a contracture within a muscle.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get an MRI for labral tears?
Prior to considering surgery, you do not need an MRI for a labral tear. Most surgeons will refer you to a physical therapist prior to approaching surgery.
Can I recover from a labral tear without surgery?
Yes, you can recover function without surgery. Conservative treatment is often successful in reducing symptoms and improving mobility.
What's an acetabular labral tear?
An acetabular labral tear is essentially the same tear as the shoulder labrum, but in the hip.
are you suffering from a labral tear?
Take a couple of minutes to tell us about your symptoms and pain areas. Prefer to chat over the phone? Call us for a free phone consultation.
Visit your local F.I.T. Physical Therapist
Meet the team at any of our 5 locations: Lee’s Summit, Crossroads, Blue Valley, Overland Park & Shawnee.
