Your Shoulder Orthopaedic Surgeon in Nashville
Labral Tear Shoulder Treatment
The labrum is the cartilage that encircles the glenoid, or shoulder socket. The labrum serves as attachment points for ligaments of the shoulder, provides stability to the shoulder joint, and anchors the biceps tendon. When this area becomes injured, the shoulder may become unstable, and a labral tear can occur.
At Pinnacle Surgical Orthopedics, Dr. Kaminsky and Dr. Baxter are equipped to provide the highest quality of care for patients with shoulder labral tears. Both surgeons have extensive experience in shoulder injury treatment that employs the latest, least-invasive technology available. They'll work with you to provide an accurate shoulder pain diagnosis and develop a plan tailored to your individual needs.
If you're ready to get your shoulder back to its pre-injury condition with the top shoulder surgeon Nashville, TN has to offer, Pinnacle Surgical Orthopedics is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us today! Together, we'll create a personalized plan of action to get you the relief you need.
Shoulder Injury Treatment from Nashville’s Own Orthopedic Surgeon
Labral Tear Repair & Shoulder Surgery
A labral tear can occur with injury, such as a forceful pull of the shoulder or from repetitive activity such as frequent throwing during baseball or softball. Labral tears can also occur with age. Certain types of labral tears have specific names such as a SLAP lesion (Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior). In this case, the socket cartilage is detached with the biceps tendon.
Treatment can include surgical and non-surgical choices. Dr. Kaminsky and Dr. Baxter frequently recommend conservative treatments such as:
- Analgesics
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Temporarily stopping sports and painful activities
The decision to have labral tear shoulder surgery is based on several factors, including the extent and severity of the tear, the degree of pain, limitations of sports or activity, and failure of other treatments.
The surgery is an arthroscopic procedure and is done on an outpatient basis. Small metallic or absorbable plastic anchors with sutures are placed into the rim of the socket. The sutures are then passed around the torn cartilage and tied. This secures the cartilage to the bone, and allows the tear to heal. Physical therapy is typically recommended after surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most common labrum tear symptoms?
Pain with activity is a frequent complaint with a labral tear. In particular, overhead activity, and especially overhead throwing, becomes weak and painful. Some patients complain of a mechanical catch or popping sensation of the shoulder when the arm is placed in certain positions. Sleep can also be affected.
Why is physical therapy an important step for healing from a labral tear?
Physical therapy can help strengthen the rotator cuff and muscles about the shoulder. It can also help improve range of motion and decrease pain. With a labral tear, the goal of physical therapy is to restore stability and normal function to the shoulder joint.
A physical therapist will create an individualized program for recovery that may include exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or cold applications to reduce inflammation.
Does your shoulder specialist near me accept insurance?
Yes! The team at Pinnacle Surgical Orthopedics accepts insurance from a wide range of providers across the Greater Nashville area. To learn more about our list of accepted providers, visit our Insurance page here on the website.
How can I get started with the best orthopedic shoulder specialist near me?
At Pinnacle, we make it easy to get started on your road to recovery. Just use our online tool to request an appointment, and we’ll schedule you as quickly as we possibly can.