Shoulder injuries are common among athletes, weightlifters, and individuals who perform repetitive overhead movements. One of the most prevalent shoulder injuries is a labral tear, which can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify if you have a shoulder labral tear and the importance of seeking treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor.
A shoulder labral tear is a condition that affects the cartilage ring surrounding the socket of the shoulder joint. This injury can be caused by trauma, overuse, or degeneration of the tissue over time. A shoulder labral tear can also be associated with general shoulder instability, where a history of prior shoulder dislocations or subluxations increases your risk for a labral tear. Common symptoms of a shoulder labral tear include pain in the shoulder joint that worsens with certain movements, popping or clicking sensations when moving the arm, weakness in the shoulder muscles, and limited range of motion. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Physiotherapists are trained healthcare professionals who specialize in treating musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. If you suspect you have a shoulder labral tear, a physiotherapist can perform a thorough assessment of your shoulder joint to determine the extent of the injury. A physiotherapist would recommend you speak to your family doctor so that they can order a special test such as an MRI scan or ultrasound imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, a physiotherapist can create a customized treatment plan that may include exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, manual therapy techniques to improve range of motion, and education on proper posture and movement patterns to prevent further injury.
Chiropractors are another healthcare professional who can help diagnose and treat shoulder labral tears. Chiropractors focus on restoring proper alignment and function of the musculoskeletal system through spinal adjustments and soft tissue treatments. In cases of a shoulder labral tear, chiropractors may use gentle manipulation techniques to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area. They may also provide recommendations for at-home exercises and stretches to improve mobility in the shoulder joint.
In addition to seeking treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor for a shoulder labral tear, it is important to follow their recommendations for rest and rehabilitation. Avoiding activities that aggravate your symptoms and following an exercise program designed by your healthcare provider can help promote healing in the injured tissue. It is also essential to practice good posture habits while sitting or standing to prevent further strain on your shoulders.
Identifying a shoulder labral tear early on and seeking treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor can help alleviate pain and discomfort in your shoulder joint. By following their recommendations for rehabilitation exercises and lifestyle modifications, you can improve strength, range of motion, and overall function in your shoulders. Remember that early intervention is key to preventing further damage and promoting optimal recovery from a shoulder labral tear.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Jonathan Tran, BSc, MSc, MPT, PT Resident, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
