What to expect from labral repair for a shoulder labral tear

The labrum is a rim of firm tissue that helps deepen the shoulder socket. During repair, the surgeon reattaches the torn tissue with anchors or sutures. The exact approach depends on the tear location, shoulder stability, activity demands, and any associated tendon or bone problem.

Pain and stiffness are common early in recovery. Your arm may remain in a sling while the repair begins to heal, and movement is introduced in stages to protect the attachment. Improvement in stability and function develops gradually rather than immediately.

Arrange help with dressing, washing, meals, and transport because one arm may be restricted at first. Follow the prescribed sling and exercise plan closely; do not lift, push, pull, or reach behind your back until your surgical team allows it.

Physiotherapy commonly progresses from hand, wrist, and elbow movement to assisted shoulder motion, then active strengthening. Return to work, driving, sports, and overhead activity depends on healing, strength, range of motion, and the demands of the task.

Seek prompt medical advice for worsening rather than settling pain, increasing redness or drainage from the wound, fever, severe swelling, new numbness or weakness, or a shoulder that suddenly looks out of place. Urgent assessment is needed for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or a rapidly swollen arm.

Ask which part of the labrum was repaired, how long the sling is needed, which movements are restricted, when physiotherapy starts, and what milestones guide return to driving, work, or sport.