What Is a Shoulder Labral Tear? Mitcham & Aspendale Gardens, Victoria
The glenoid labrum is a cartilage ring that surrounds the shoulder joint socket, helping to stabilise the shoulder. Injuries to this area—including SLAP tears (superior labrum anterior to posterior)—are common in overhead sports, high-impact trauma, or repetitive movements.
Types of labral tears include:
- SLAP lesion shoulder injuries – commonly seen in throwing athletes.
- Torn shoulder labrum – from dislocations or instability.
- Anterosuperior labral tears – affecting the front top portion of the labrum.
Our clinicians specialise in restoring joint function after injuries from trauma, dislocation, or repetitive overhead movement—common in sports like swimming, tennis, rugby, and weightlifting.
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Symptoms of a Shoulder Labral Tear
Recognising labral tear symptoms early can improve recovery outcomes. Common signs include:
Sharp pain or a catching deep in the shoulder joint;
Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations;
Weakness with overhead movements and reduced performance.
Additional indicators may include pain at the top of the shoulder (SLAP lesion), instability during lifting or sport, and difficulty reaching behind the back.
Our clinicians assess these using specialised tests such as O’Brien’s, Crank's, and Speed’s, tailored to your specific injury.
How We Treat Labral and SLAP Tears
- Comprehensive Diagnosis with VALD Testing: We use VALD technology to assess strength, stability, and range of motion, helping pinpoint the severity of your shoulder labral tear or SLAP lesion and guide your rehab.
- Manual Therapy & Pain Management: Hands-on techniques like dry needling, mobilisation, and postural correction reduce pain and inflammation linked to shoulder labral tear symptoms.
- Individualised Strength Programming: Your rehab targets scapular control and rotator cuff strength, which are key for SLAP injuries and overall labral stability.
- Controlled Range of Motion Restoration: We follow a structured approach to restore mobility safely and reduce stiffness and restriction.
- Return to Play & Sport-Specific Reintegration: Our elite-level programs prepare you for a full return to sport, with tailored labral tear rehab exercises for your activity.
Injuries We Treat
Knee Injuries
Shoulder Injury
Spine & Neck
Hip & Groin
Hamstring
Lower Leg
Ankle & Foot
Functional
Special Conditions
Veteran Team That Listens
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Symptom Management
We carefully assess and address your specific pain points and discomfort
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Pathology Understanding
We analyse your injury through detailed assessment and imaging when necessary
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Objective Progress Tracking
We measure your improvement week-by-week using advanced testing technology
📞 Book Your Shoulder Labral Tear Assessment Today
Whether dealing with a shoulder labral tear or seeking clarity on your symptoms, Full Speed Performance offers expert diagnosis and a structured recovery plan. We combine precise testing, rehab science, and performance protocols to guide your return to pain-free movement.
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Our physiotherapy team has been trusted by
Our team at Full Speed Performance has supported everyone from elite athletes to everyday individuals, earning the trust of professional sports teams, orthopaedic specialists, and performance coaches. We deliver the same high-quality care to every client, whether you're aiming for peak performance or simply want to move pain-free.
FAQ
A labral tear is damage to the cartilage ring around the shoulder socket, often caused by trauma, dislocation, or repetitive overhead activity. SLAP tears are a specific type affecting the top of the labrum.
Typical signs include deep shoulder pain, clicking or popping, weakness with overhead movement, limited range of motion, and instability, especially during sport or lifting.
Yes. Physiotherapy is highly effective in reducing pain, restoring mobility, and strengthening the shoulder to stabilise the joint and prevent further injury.
Diagnosis includes a clinical exam, special tests (like O’Brien’s and Crank), and sometimes imaging such as MRI or MR arthrogram. We also use VALD technology for performance-based assessments.
Not always. Many labral tears respond well to conservative treatment. We focus on rehab first, and if needed, collaborate with your surgeon for further care.

