Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Labral Tear
What is a labral tear?
A labral tear is an injury to the labrum, the cartilage ring that encircles the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) where it connects with the shoulder socket. The labrum’s role is to provide stability to the ball-and-socket joint and enable a wide range of shoulder motion. Such tears commonly result from trauma or sudden injury to the shoulder.
Causes of a Labral Tear
Labral tears may occur due to a direct injury or trauma to the shoulder, such as a fall or sudden impact. They can also develop gradually over time as a result of age-related wear and degeneration of the cartilage.
Symptoms of a Labral Tear
Common signs of a labral tear include pain during certain shoulder movements, a persistent aching sensation, and sensations of catching, popping, locking, or grinding within the joint. Some individuals may also experience feelings of shoulder instability or repeated dislocations.
Physiotherapy for a Labral Tear
Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for many labral tears and may help avoid the need for surgery. Your physiotherapist will first assess your shoulder to determine the type of tear you have. The main types include:
- SLAP Tear: A tear at the top of the labrum
- Bankart Lesion: A tear at the front of the labrum
- Reverse Bankart Tear: A tear at the back of the labrum
Initial treatment typically involves resting the shoulder, often supported by a sling, followed by a gradual increase in movement guided by your physiotherapist. Strengthening exercises are introduced progressively to rebuild muscle support, along with functional training to restore daily activities.
In cases where the tear is severe or does not improve with physiotherapy, surgery may be necessary. Post-surgical rehabilitation will then focus on restoring movement and strength, following the surgeon’s protocol, and will closely resemble conservative physiotherapy treatment.
Can a Labral Tear Cause Long-Term Effects?
With proper treatment and careful management, most people fully recover from a labral tear and can return to their previous level of activity. Although there is a possibility of the injury recurring—especially if managed without surgery—this risk is generally low when a thorough rehabilitation program is followed.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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Sat: 8am - 4pm
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