Shoulder Labrum Tear Treatment Without Surgery

The shoulder labrum is a ring of cartilage lining the glenoid socket that deepens the socket and provides stability for the ball of the shoulder joint. Labrum tears can cause shoulder pain, instability, clicking, and a sense that the shoulder may ‘pop out.’

Depending on the type and severity of the tear, non-surgical orthobiologic treatment may be an appropriate first step before considering arthroscopic repair. Request an appointment at Palm Beach Regenerative.

Labrum tears are classified by location: SLAP tears (superior labrum from front to back) are common in overhead athletes and throwing sports. Bankart lesions occur in the front of the labrum following anterior shoulder dislocations. Posterior labral tears are less common.

Not all labrum tears cause symptoms, and not all require surgery.

• Deep shoulder pain, often difficult to localize precisely
• Clicking, popping, or grinding with shoulder movement
• Shoulder instability, or the feeling that the joint may slip or feel loose
• Weakness with overhead activities or throwing
• Night pain, particularly in certain positions

• Acute trauma, such as a shoulder dislocation or fall on an outstretched arm
• Repetitive overhead motion (tennis, swimming, baseball, volleyball)
• Degeneration with age
• Hypermobility of the shoulder joint

MRI, particularly with arthrogram (contrast injection into the joint), is the most sensitive imaging tool for diagnosing labrum tears. Dr. Ghattas reviews imaging findings in the context of your symptoms and functional limitations to determine the most appropriate treatment path.

• Physical therapy: Rotator cuff and scapular strengthening to compensate for labral instability
• Activity modification and rest during the acute phase
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Arthroscopic labrum repair: For significant instability, Bankart lesions, or SLAP tears in high-demand athletes

For patients with partial labral tears or those who prefer to explore non-surgical options before committing to arthroscopic repair, image-guided orthobiologic injection targeting the shoulder joint and labral tissue may help support the body’s healing response and reduce pain and inflammation.

Dr. Ghattas will review your MRI and clinical presentation to assess whether your tear pattern and stability profile make you an appropriate candidate for this approach.