Shoulder labral tear is a common injury in athletes, especially those participating in contact sports. It is caused when the labrum—the rim of cartilage that lines the shoulder socket—is torn due to sudden or repetitive motion. In addition to pain, other symptoms include instability and difficulty moving the arm. Fortunately, physiotherapy can be an effective way to manage shoulder labral tears and help people recover from the injury. Let’s take a look at how physiotherapy can help with this condition.
Pain Management for Shoulder Labral Tear
The most immediate concern after a shoulder labral tear is managing the pain. Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for this type of injury; it takes time and patience to get back on track. That being said, physiotherapists are experts in helping people manage their pain without relying solely on medication. They will work with you to find exercises and stretches that target your specific needs and provide relief from your symptoms in the short term while working toward long-term recovery.
Range of Motion & Strength Training
In addition to helping manage your pain, physiotherapists will also help you build strength and improve the range of motion in your shoulders as part of your rehabilitation program. This includes specific exercises designed to gradually increase strength in the affected area as well as stretches that aim to improve flexibility and range of motion over time. As your muscles become stronger and more flexible, you may also find it easier to perform everyday activities like reaching overhead or carrying heavy objects without discomfort or pain.
Rehabilitation & Recovery
The goal of any rehabilitation program should always be getting back to full functionality as soon as possible; however, it’s important not to rush this process too much or push yourself beyond what is safe for your body right now. A good physio will be able to assess where you are at currently and develop a comprehensive plan tailored specifically for you so that you can progress safely during each step of your recovery journey. This includes things like setting realistic goals, monitoring progress, offering feedback on performance, making modifications as needed, and preventing further injuries down the road by focusing on proper technique during each session.
Physiotherapy can be an effective form of treatment for shoulder labral tears because it helps people manage their pain while gradually building strength and improving their range of motion over time. It also provides guidance throughout the entire recovery process by setting realistic goals, monitoring progress, offering feedback on performance, making modifications as needed, and preventing further injuries down the road by focusing on proper technique during each session.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or one of the other physiotherapists at CARESPACE Health+Wellness in Kitchener and Waterloo. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
