Specialized Surgical Care for Labral Tears
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket and helps keep the joint stable. When the labrum tears, it can cause pain, instability, and a feeling that the shoulder may “slip” out of place. These injuries often affect athletes, workers who do overhead tasks, or individuals who have experienced a shoulder dislocation.
At Michigan Orthopedic Center, our orthopedic surgeons offer expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options for labral tears. If your symptoms do not improve with conservative care, surgical repair may be the most effective way to restore shoulder stability and function.
How to Know If You Have a Labral Tear
Labral tears are not always obvious right away. You may need a shoulder evaluation if you notice:
- A deep, aching pain in the shoulder joint
- Popping, clicking, or catching with movement
- A sensation that the shoulder is “loose” or may dislocate
- Weakness during lifting or overhead activity
- Pain that worsens with activity or does not improve with rest
Causes of Labral Tears
Labral injuries can result from:
- Repetitive overhead motion (such as throwing or lifting)
- Traumatic injuries, such as a fall or shoulder dislocation
- Age-related wear in the cartilage of the shoulder joint
Your surgeon will determine whether your tear is from trauma or degeneration, which helps guide treatment.
Diagnosis and Imaging at Michigan Orthopedic Center
A physical exam combined with advanced imaging, such as MRI with contrast, helps our team confirm the presence, location, and severity of the tear. Common types include SLAP tears (top of the labrum), Bankart tears (from dislocation), and posterior labral tears.
Surgical Treatment for Labral Tears
When a labral tear causes shoulder instability or persistent pain, surgery may be recommended. Our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons typically use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to:
- Repair the torn labrum
- Remove loose cartilage or inflamed tissue
- Tighten the joint capsule to improve stability
Surgical repair is performed as an outpatient procedure in most cases, and patients go home the same day.
Meet Our Shoulder Surgeons
Our shoulder specialists are board-certified and fellowship-trained, with decades of combined experience treating shoulder injuries and disorders. Each brings advanced training in arthroscopy, fracture care, and joint replacement, along with a commitment to patient-centered care.
Click below to learn more about the surgeons who specialize in shoulder care at Michigan Orthopedic Center and find the right expert for your needs.
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Meredith C. Heisey, DO
Board Certified & Fellowship Trained Orthopedic SurgeonShoulder, Elbow & Knee Specialist -
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What Recovery Looks Like
After surgery, your arm will be supported in a sling to protect the repair. A structured physical therapy plan begins shortly after to help regain motion and rebuild strength. Most patients recover over a period of several months, with a gradual return to full activity depending on the type of tear and your lifestyle.
Schedule Your Shoulder Evaluation Today
If your shoulder feels unstable or painful and other treatments have not worked, Michigan Orthopedic Center can help. Our surgical team provides precise care for labral injuries to help restore shoulder function and reduce your risk of future problems. Contact us today to get started.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free
