Labral Repair: Understanding Types & Treatment

A labrum is a small fibrocartilage lip between the bones in the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. Doctors often diagnosis labral tears using a magnetic resonance imaging scan, also called an MRI.

Types of Tears

• There are three types of labral tears. In the first type, the labrum detaches from the bone. In the second type, there is a tear within the substance of the labrum itself. The third type of tear occurs where the biceps tendon is attached to the labrum.

Repair Methods

• Labral repairs may be done through an incision at the front of the shoulder or arthroscopically. Arthroscopic repair requires an orthopedic surgeon skilled in arthroscopic technique.

Rehabilitation

• Rehabilitation after labral repair requires physical therapy to regain motion and strength. This is a slow process, moving from passive to active motion and then strengthening. Full recovery may require up to six months.