Precision Diagnosis & Modern Treatment for Shoulder Instability and Labral Injuries

LABRAL TEARS & SHOULDER INSTABILITY

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The labrum is the stabilizing cartilage ring surrounding the shoulder socket. When injured—either from trauma, repetitive overhead use, or a dislocation—it can lead to pain, weakness, and recurrent instability. As one of the most complex joints in the body, the shoulder requires an experienced surgeon to accurately diagnose and treat labral pathology.

At Modern Orthopedics, we offer a concierge-level evaluation and the latest arthroscopic stabilization techniques to help patients regain confidence and return to full activity.

 

What Is a Labral Tear?

A labral tear occurs when the cartilage rim around the glenoid becomes disrupted.

 

Common types include:

 

SLAP Tears

Injury to the upper portion of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches.

 

Bankart Lesions

Anterior labral tears associated with dislocation or instability.

 

Posterior Labral Tears

Common in weightlifters and athletes who load the shoulder in flexion.

 

Symptoms of Labral Tears & Instability

• Pain with overhead or behind-the-body movements

• Shoulder slipping, shifting, or “giving out”

• Clicking, popping, or catching sensations

• Weakness or reduced power

• Difficulty lifting or stabilizing the arm

• Recurrent dislocations

 

If the shoulder has dislocated even once, a proper evaluation is essential—especially in young or active individuals.

 

Concierge Evaluation & Imaging

Diagnosis of labral pathology requires both expertise and detailed imaging.

 

Your evaluation includes:

• Comprehensive shoulder exam

• Review of prior imaging

• MRI interpretation or ordering of an MRI arthrogram

• Direct discussion of stability risk and treatment options

 

You will receive a clear, personalized treatment plan based on your level of instability, activity goals, and imaging findings.

 

Non-Surgical Management

 

Appropriate for low-grade labral tears or minimal instability:

• Physical therapy focused on scapular control and rotator cuff strengthening

• Activity modification

• Anti-inflammatory strategies

 

Many patients improve without surgery when instability is minimal.

 

Surgical Management

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Arthroscopic Labral Repair & Stabilization

 

For patients with structural tears or recurrent instability, Dr. Barrett offers minimally invasive arthroscopic repair.

 

Techniques include:

• Bankart repair

• SLAP repair or biceps tenodesis

• Posterior labral repair

• Capsular tightening when needed

 

Our goal is to restore stability while maintaining natural shoulder biomechanics.

 

Recovery Expectations

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Recovery varies depending on the type of repair, but typically:

• 0–4 weeks: Protection in a sling

• 4–8 weeks: Guided motion

• 8–16 weeks: Strengthening

• 4–6 months: Gradual return to sport

• 6+ months: High-demand overhead or contact sports

 

Patients are guided through a structured recovery protocol for optimal results.

 

Schedule a Consultation

 

We provide expert evaluation for patients throughout Cupertino, Los Gatos, Campbell, Saratoga, and South San Jose.

📅 Same-week visits available
📞 Call: 408-353-0203