Shoulder pain is a common problem, especially for older folks, athletes, and people who are active. A lot of shoulder pain goes away on its own with rest and over-the-counter painkillers. But pain that won’t go away or is very bad could be a sign of something more serious, like a torn labrum.
If you don’t know when to see a doctor, you could end up with long-term joint instability instead of a simple healing.
What Is the Labrum, and Why Does It Matter?
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the hole of your shoulder joint. It helps keep the ball of your upper arm bone stable and comfortable. It is very important for shoulder strength and movement. If it tears because of an injury, overuse, or old age, you might feel pain, a limited range of motion, or even a popping or clicking sound in the joint.
Common Symptoms of a Shoulder Labrum Tear
Not all shoulder pain is due to a labrum tear, but some key warning signs include:
- A deep, aching pain in the shoulder
- Pain that worsens with overhead movements
- Feeling of instability or weakness in the shoulder
- Clicking, locking, or grinding sensations
- Reduced range of motion or strength
Some labrum tears, like SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tears, happen a lot in athletes who throw or do a lot of overhead work, like weightlifters or swimmers.
When to See a Doctor
Here are a few signs that your shoulder pain needs medical evaluation:
- Pain lasts more than a few days with no improvement
- Sudden sharp pain after an injury or accident
- Noticeable decrease in range of motion or strength
- Shoulder feels unstable or frequently “gives out”
- Pain interferes with daily activities or sleep
If there is a torn labrum, getting treatment and a diagnosis right away can stop the injury from getting worse and improve the result. Delaying care could make your symptoms worse and could damage buildings nearby.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If your doctor thinks you might have a torn labrum, they will probably start by checking your health and getting imaging tests like an MRI. They may sometimes suggest an arthroscopic procedure to prove the tear and get a better idea of the damage.
Treatment can range from physical therapy and rest to surgical repair, depending on the severity of the tear and your lifestyle. For a detailed overview of labrum tear symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, visit: https://levelupshoulder.com/shoulder-labrum-tear/
Don’t Push Through the Pain
It can be tempting to put up with shoulder pain or hope it goes away on its own, but you shouldn’t ignore pain that won’t go away, especially if it’s making it hard to work, train, or sleep. You should see an orthopedic doctor if you think your shoulder pain might be more than just a strain.
When you lift groceries or hit a tennis serve, your shoulder is a very important joint. Don’t wait for the pain to get worse before you see a doctor. Get help right away and start getting better Click More.
