Labral Tear

Less common but can occur with pitchers, tennis serves or hard falls onto the arm or shoulders. This leads to more joint play (harder to keep the ball and socket of the shoulder aligned) and requires very specific rotator curl and functional strength training. Your PhysioActive team can give you the precise care you need to overcome your labral tear.

The common symptoms of a shoulder labral tear may include:

1. Pain in the shoulder joint, particularly during certain activities or movements such as overhead motions, lifting heavy objects, or reaching behind the back
2. A feeling of instability or weakness in the shoulder joint, which may be more noticeable during physical activity or when performing certain movements
3. Catching or popping sensations in the shoulder joint during movement
4. Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint
5. A clicking or grinding sound in the shoulder joint during movement
6. Shoulder stiffness or muscle weakness
7. A sensation that the shoulder joint is “slipping” or “coming out of place”
8. Shoulder joint inflammation or swelling
9. Pain or discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder.

While it is not possible to definitively diagnose a labral tear at home, here are two simple tests that you can do at home that may help determine if your shoulder pain is from a labral tear:

1. Crank test: To perform this test, stand with your arm at a 90-degree angle and your elbow bent, and then rotate your arm outward as far as you can while keeping your elbow bent. If you experience pain or discomfort in the shoulder joint during this movement, it may be a sign of a labral tear.
2. O’Brien’s test: To perform this test, stand with your arm extended out in front of you at shoulder height with your palm facing down. Next, bring your arm across your body at a 90-degree angle with your thumb pointing down, and then push down against resistance from your other hand. Release the resistance and then repeat the same movement with your palm facing up. If you experience pain or discomfort during the first movement (palm down) that goes away during the second movement (palm up), it may be a sign of a labral tear.

It is important to note that these tests are not a substitute for professional medical evaluation and diagnosis. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect a labral tear, it is recommended to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional. Prompt treatment can help prevent further damage and improve your chances of a successful recovery.