The labrum is a dense fibrocartilage ring that is firmly attached around the acetabulum (shoulder socket). It provides both depth and stability to the normally shallow acetabulum.

A labral tear can result in a painful and unstable shoulder. A stiff, painful (frozen) shoulder is not uncommon after shoulder trauma. This may be the body’s protective response. It is usually self-limiting. This means it will eventually get better on its own.

If conservative care does not take care of the problem, then surgery may be needed. The surgeon may just manipulate the shoulder. This is a careful moving of the shoulder through its full motion while the patient is anesthetized. If that doesn’t help, then incision and release of the anterior shoulder capsule may be needed.

For more information on this subject, call The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics at 239-596-0100 or visit www.zehrcenter.com. The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of a visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.

Studies using thermal energy to heat the shoulder capsule were first done on animals. There were no obvious problems seen afterwards in relaxation of the tissue. Studies were done next on cadavers (human bodies preserved after death for study) and finally, on live humans. Loss of joint motion hasn’t been reported.

If anything there are some concerns that shrinkage alters the elasticity of the tissue. Under too much load there’s a risk of stretching out the tissues. In this case, the shoulder can become unstable again with too much motion.

Your best bet for a good result is to follow your doctor’s directions and report any problems early on.

For information on total shoulder replacement, please visit www.zehrcenter.com.

For more information on this subject, call The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics at 239-596-0100 or visit www.zehrcenter.com.The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.

There are many versions of one brace used most often for this problem. The most common names are the Sully brace, SAWA max shoulder brace, and the Wyre brace. Sometimes these are referred to as shoulder stabilizers.

Most of these braces are similar. They all fit like a vest, with a single short sleeve on the involved shoulder. Motion is limited with straps. The brace holds the shoulder girdle and limits arm motion on the affected side. You adjust it to limit or restrict motions. Some are made of soft material (neoprene) with elastic straps held by velcro. Others are cotton canvas.

Any of these braces can help hold the shoulder joint in place. They assist or restrict movement according to the needs of the athlete. The athlete can wear the support while participating in sports. It allows natural movement of the muscles and joints. The Sully brace is suggested for athletes who throw overhead. The Wyre brace is used for non-overhead throwing athletes in contact sports.

To learn more about shoulder injuries and the options for treatment and even total shoulder replacement, visit the Patient Education Center at The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics online.

For more information on this subject, call The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics at 239-596-0100 or visit www.zehrcenter.com.The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.