The Shoulder Labrum is a circular piece of smooth cartilage in the shoulder joint that allows for smooth movement and cushion for the shoulder to sit in.  This cushion protects, creates a barrier of smooth movement for the shoulder, and eases the pressure of the shoulder into the fossa it sets.  Typically, we see individuals incur this injury from overhead movements, throwing motions, as well as repetitive shoulder movements.  People we see this injury in most are physical labor jobs, athletes that throw, weightlifters, and impact sports. 

People that experience Shoulder Labrum Injuries will have symptoms of pain deep in the shoulder,  pain on movement, clicking/popping in the shoulder joint, blockage and/or pressure build up in the shoulder which decreases range of motion, and loss of strength.  If left untreated can result in further damage to the labrum, overuse injuries to the supporting muscles in the shoulder and chest, and possibly tearing of the cartilage.

There are different diagnoses for Shoulder Labrum Injuries more commonly diagnosed with Inflammation of the shoulder joint, pinching of the shoulder labrum, or tearing of the shoulder labrum.

The best course of action for this is a proper examination/evaluation of the injury.  This will allow for the injury to be specifically diagnosed and properly treated.  With all shoulder injuries we want to limit the movements that cause pain, decrease the pain, work on improving pain free range of motion, improve stability to the muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the shoulder, and improve the strength to those muscles, tendons, and ligaments.  We want to see manual therapy to decrease soft tissue irritations.  Stability and strength exercises to help improve support and function of the area to decrease risk of further and future injuries.  And finally, we want to build a proper self-care program for the individual to manage this issue on their own.