LABRAL TEAR

What is a Labral Tear?

The labrum is part of the cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint and plays a role in maintaining shoulder stability. When this cartilage is damaged, it can cause shoulder pain and instability. This condition is called a "labral tear.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of a labral tear are as follows:

• Shoulder pain
• Shoulder instability
• Popping or clicking sounds with shoulder movement
• Restricted range of motion

Causes

A labral tear can occur due to the following causes:

• Severe impact or trauma to the shoulder: falls or collisions during sports
• Repetitive motions: overhead sports like baseball, tennis, and basketball
• Aging: weakening of the labrum with age

Treatment Methods

The treatment of a labral tear varies depending on the extent of the damage and the severity of the symptoms. The following are common treatment methods:

Conservative Treatment

For mild injuries, conservative treatment is often chosen:

• Rest: resting the shoulder to reduce inflammation and promote natural healing
• Icing: cooling the shoulder to reduce inflammation and pain
• Rehabilitation: performing strength training and stretching exercises to restore shoulder stability

Medication

The following medications may be used to reduce pain and inflammation:

• Pain relievers
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Surgical Treatment

If conservative treatment and medications are not effective, surgery may be considered. The main surgical method is as follows:

• Arthroscopic Surgery: small incisions are made, and the damaged part is repaired using an arthroscope

Prevention Measures

To prevent a labral tear, keep the following points in mind:

• Regularly perform exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles
• Avoid overexertion and use proper form during physical activities
• Conduct appropriate warm-up and cool-down exercises

With appropriate treatment and preventive measures, it is possible to improve symptoms and prevent recurrence of a labral tear.

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