What Is a Labrum?
The labrum is a ring of cartilage found in both the shoulder and hip joints, and it plays a major role in joint stability. In the shoulder, it’s called the glenoid labrum; in the hip, it’s known as the acetabular labrum.
So what does it do?
The labrum extends the surface area of the joint socket — essentially making the “cup” deeper so that the “ball” (the head of the humerus in the shoulder or the head of the femur in the hip) fits more securely. This added depth helps reduce the risk of dislocation, improves stability, and distributes load more evenly across the joint. It also acts as a shock absorber and helps reduce friction during movement.
Why Labrum Injuries Matter
When the labrum is torn or damaged, the joint becomes less stable. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the surrounding structures, which may result in pain, dysfunction, or further injury.
Common signs and symptoms of a labral tear include:
- Joint instability or a feeling of the shoulder/hip “giving out”
- Weakness in the affected joint
- Clicking, catching, or popping during movement
- Pain with certain motions, especially overhead or rotational activities
Think You Might Have a Labral Issue?
Labral injuries are common in athletes, active adults, and individuals who perform repetitive overhead or rotational movements — but they can happen to anyone. If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to get ahead of a potential issue, don’t wait.
At Prevent & Restore Physical Therapy, we specialize in identifying the root cause of joint dysfunction and creating personalized treatment plans to help you recover fully and move confidently again.
Book an appointment today and take the first step toward getting back to doing what you love — pain-free.
