If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, clicking, or instability, you may be dealing with a labral tear. The shoulder labrum is a critical structure that stabilizes your shoulder joint, and when it’s torn, the effects can be painful and long-lasting. At Shoulders & Knees with Dr. Steven Struhl, we specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries like labral tears for patients across New York City and Westchester County.

With advanced diagnostics and cutting-edge arthroscopic techniques, Dr. Steven Struhl, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and shoulder expert, helps patients restore strength, stability, and function—without unnecessary surgery.

Understanding the Shoulder Labrum

The labrum is a cartilage ring that surrounds the glenoid (shoulder socket), deepening the socket and helping keep the ball of the shoulder joint in place. It plays a key role in stabilizing the shoulder and anchoring ligaments and tendons.

When the labrum is torn, the result can be:

  • Pain during movement
  • Shoulder popping or catching
  • Decreased range of motion
  • A sensation of the shoulder “slipping out” or feeling unstable

There are several types of labral tears, including:

  • SLAP tears (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior), common in athletes and overhead motions
  • Bankart tears, typically caused by dislocations
  • Posterior labral tears, often from repeated strain

What Causes a Labral Tear?

Labral tears can result from traumatic injury, overuse, or degeneration over time. Common causes include:

  • Shoulder dislocations (especially in younger athletes)
  • Repetitive overhead motions (common in baseball, tennis, and swimming)
  • Falls onto an outstretched arm
  • Heavy lifting or pulling
  • Aging and cartilage wear (particularly in adults over 40)

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, labral injuries are increasingly common, especially among athletes and physically active individuals. In fact, studies show that up to 26% of all shoulder arthroscopies are performed to evaluate labral damage.

Diagnosing and Treating a Labral Tear

At Dr. Steven Struhl’s offices in Manhattan and Westchester, patients benefit from personalized diagnostics and a conservative-first approach. Many labral tears can be treated without surgery using:

  • Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and stabilize the joint
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Activity modification and rest
  • Cortisone injections for pain relief

If symptoms persist or the tear is severe, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended. Dr. Struhl uses minimally invasive techniques to repair or debride the torn labrum with precision—minimizing recovery time and maximizing outcomes.

Why Choose Dr. Steven Struhl?

Dr. Struhl is a leading orthopedic shoulder surgeon with more than 25 years of experience. He is recognized for his work in both sports medicine and complex shoulder reconstruction.

  • Offices in Manhattan (Upper West Side) and Westchester (Harrison, NY)
  • Board-certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
  • Pioneer of advanced arthroscopic shoulder stabilization techniques
  • Trusted by athletes, professionals, and active adults across NYC and Westchester
  • Focused on evidence-based care and minimally invasive procedures

Whether you live in the heart of New York City or in nearby White Plains, Scarsdale, or Rye, Dr. Struhl provides expert shoulder care designed to get you back to doing what you love—safely and efficiently.

Get Expert Help for Shoulder Labral Tears in NYC and Westchester

Shoulder pain shouldn’t be ignored. If you suspect a labral tear, don’t wait—get a professional evaluation with Dr. Steven Struhl, one of the top shoulder surgeons in New York. With locations in both NYC and Westchester, we make it convenient to get the care you need.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for lasting shoulder relief.