Shoulder

Glenoid Labrum Tear

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Signs and Symptoms

The glenoid, or socket joint of the shoulder, is surrounded by a fibrocartilaginous supporting structure called the labrum. Injuries to the tissue surrounding the shoulder socket can be caused by acute trauma or repetitive shoulder motions. Examples include falling on an outstretched arm, a direct blow to the shoulder, sudden pull or a violent overhead reach, such as occurs when trying to stop a fall or slide. Throwing athletes and weight lifters can experience tears due to repetitive shoulder motion.

Tears can be located either above (superior) or below (inferior) the middle of the glenoid socket. A SLAP lesion (superior labrum, anterior [front] to posterior [back]) is a tear of the rim above the middle of the socket that may also involve the biceps tendon.

Signs and symptoms of glenoid labrum tears include:

• Pain, usually with overhead activities
• Catching, locking, popping or grinding
• Occasional night pain or pain with daily activities
• A sense of instability in the shoulder
• Decreased range of motion
• Loss of strength

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007