Is this a torn labrum?

Question

I injured my left shoulder in football my freshman year in High School. I continued to play on it because it didn't hurt too bad, I thought I had maybe just strained it. But then I hurt it again and this time when I made contact with someone, my entire left arm fell numb. Even after this I continued to play, but my shoulder was always in pain and was doing weird things. I took ibuprofen for the pain, and now when I would angle my shoulder in a certain way, it would feel as if it slides out of place. It shows up as a bulge on the outside edge, where if you normally put pressure, is right below where the bone of the shoulder is in between the arm and shoulder. When it comes back into place it pops really loud.

I have since quit football and I am in my Junior year now and it seems my shoulder is getting progressively worse. The continuous pain it normally has giving me over the years is increasing dramatically.

What do you think this is?

roodle007 · Accepted Answer

It sounds as if you are describing a shoulder subluxation and there is most likely a tear in the labrum.
I would recommend you get this assessed by an orthopod as soon as possible as it is important to correct this with someone of your age to avoid joint degeneration and arthritis in the future.
You can get some reduction in symptoms by strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers but if there is a tear it will need surgical intervention.
Physiotherapy can help with pain relief and you will be shown how to correct and muscle imbalance through appropriate exercises. You may also be shown how to tape the shoulder for ongoing support.
My advice would be to get an assessment and see a physio ASAP.
Hope this helps.

Anonymous · Answer

the shoulder is very complex. it will take a orthopedist who is a shoulder specialist to get the proper diagnosis.

I have a recurring shoulder problem. 10 yrs ago is was a hole in the rotator cuff.  3 months go it was an impingement.

physical therapy resolved both problems.

Scott · Answer

With the degenerative factor of it progressively getting worse and the feeling of instability I would say the chances are pretty good the the labrum is affected.

meaussiegirl · Answer

If I had xray eyes I could tell you.. but unfortunatly I dont so my advice is to go to the drs and get some scans and xrays.. this is important if it hasnt got better yet you really do need to see about it. Pain means something is wrong go as soon as possible good luck

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Is this a torn labrum?

4 Answers