Shoulder Labral Tear Treatment in Louisville, KY

Baseball player in red jersey pitching a ball

A labral tear is a common shoulder injury that affects the labrum, a rim of fibrous cartilage that holds the end of the upper arm bone (humerus) firmly in its socket. The labrum can tear suddenly if direct force is applied to the shoulder while the arm is fully extended. It can also tear gradually through repetitive overhead arm movements, such as those involved in lifting weights, serving a tennis ball, or pitching a baseball.

It is important to get to the bottom of any type of shoulder pain. The renowned team at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky, includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons who specialize in evaluating and treating a full spectrum of painful shoulder conditions. You can feel confident turning to us for a diagnosis and treatment if you suspect you have a labral tear.

What Does a Shoulder Labral Tear Feel Like?

In addition to a deep ache near the back of the shoulder, a labral tear can cause:

  • Pain that intensifies when the arm is raised overhead
  • A feeling of looseness or instability in the shoulder joint
  • A popping, clicking, or grinding sensation in the shoulder (crepitus)
  • Arm muscle weakness
  • A noticeable decline in sports performance, such as a reduction in pitch speed

How Is a Shoulder Labral Tear Treated?

In many cases, a labral tear can be treated conservatively. Some potentially effective options include:

  • Temporarily avoiding overhead arm movements to prevent further damage
  • Applying an ice pack and taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) as needed to reduce painful swelling
  • Performing targeted stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder

After a brief period of rest and rehabilitation, a progressive physical therapy program can facilitate a gradual but full return to sports activities. However, if the symptoms of a shoulder labral tear do not improve with several weeks of non-surgical treatment, surgical repair may be considered. In some cases, a torn labrum can be repaired arthroscopically. During this minimally invasive procedure, the surgeon accesses the shoulder joint through tiny incisions and uses specialized surgical instruments to reattach the torn edges of the labrum.

If you would like to set up a consultation with a shoulder specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, KY, contact us today.

What our patients are saying
Shaun H.
I was able to get a office visit on short notice. It seemed to be a very busy day. Rebecca took the time to listen to all of my issues and discuss a plan for additional treatment. I have always been impressed with her knowledge and bed side manner.
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Joanna S.
Dr Goodin has replaced both of my knees this year with excellent results. He and Carly listen to my concerns, act promptly and work hard to make this journey the best it can be. Carly and Dr Goodin both have GREAT bedside manner and I feel I am in expert care with them.
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Sara G.
Dr. Richardson is the best! He did shoulder decompression surgery for me many moons ago and has continued to treat me for other shoulder, arm, and back issues since. I would recommend him to anyone!
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Juanita S.
The New Albany office of Louisville Orthopedic is full of terrific people who know what excellent customer service is about! From the front desk to the lab, they are great. Doctor Lewis is my surgeon and I love him. He’s good at what he does and he’s compassionate. I would recommend him to anyone.
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Erin Z.
This was my first time at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic and I saw Melissa Parshall PA-C. I was very impressed with how fast I got in, had x-rays, and met with her. She was very thorough and extremely friendly. So glad A friend told me to come see you guys! Thank you!
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Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

4130 Dutchman's Lane,
Suite 300,Louisville 40207
(502) 897-1794

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

1425 State St.,
,New Albany 47150
(812) 920-0408

Locations
*MAIN LOCATION
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
4130 Dutchman's Lane
Suite 300
Louisville, KY 40207

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
1425 State St.
New Albany, IN 47150