A torn labrum is a shoulder injury that affects how smoothly your shoulder joint moves. It often develops from repeated overhead motion, sudden force to the shoulder, or lifting something heavy at an awkward angle.
Rather than one clear moment of injury, symptoms may build over time.
It may be easy to notice and can cause:
- Deep shoulder pain that worsens with use
- A sensation that something is catching inside the joint
- Loss of strength or control in the shoulder
- Discomfort when reaching, lifting, or throwing
How serious is it?
The seriousness of a labral tear depends on how much it interferes with shoulder movement.
- Smaller tears may cause irritation but still allow day-to-day use.
- Larger tears can disrupt normal shoulder mechanics and limit activity.
What does recovery look like?
Recovery varies based on the extent of the injury.
- Imaging tests are often used to better understand what’s happening inside the shoulder.
- Treatment may focus on rest and rehabilitation, or surgical repair when symptoms persist.
- Recovery can take several months and usually includes guided therapy to rebuild strength and coordination.