Shockwave Therapy for A Shoulder Labral Tear
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is an effective treatment option for a type I shoulder labral tear particularly for pain relief, promoting soft tissue healing in surrounding structures. For types II, III and IV post-surgery it can aid in improving function.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, and exercise rehabilitation, it can provide a comprehensive approach that addresses the symptoms and makes it faster and easier for clients to return to their normal activities. For a pricise diagnosis a MRI scan is advised.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is A Shoulder Labral Tear?
A shoulder labral tear occurs when the glenoid labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint, and in some cases, the bicep tendon, is damaged. This tear can be due to direct trauma, overuse, shoulder dislocation, or degeneration with age. Symptoms include popping, catching, grinding sensation; pain with lifting objects; pain with lifting arm above head; reduced shoulder strength.
Types of labral tears:
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SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior)
Occur in individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities, after a fall on an outstretched arm, or forceful movement of the arm with a heavy object. Chronic injury is the most common cause. Type I - Degenerative fraying; Type II - Detachment of superior labrum; Type III - Bucket-handle tear of labrum; Type IV - Tear of bicep tendon and bucket-handle tear of labrum.
Bankart Tear
Often associated with shoulder dislocations, fSWT can help manage pain, but surgical repair is often recommended for stabilisation.
Posterior Labral Tear
Can develop from a SLAP tear or from direct trauma.
If you think you have a shoulder labral tear and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now, drop us an email or phone us on 07760 536155 for a quick chat.
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats Shoulder Labral Tears
- Promotes healing and tissue repair
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Reduces muscle and tendon tension
- Improves shoulder function and mobility
Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more about how we can help.
Treatment Protocol for Shoulder Labral Tears
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for a type I labral tear usually involves 5 to 8 sessions, spaced about one week apart. Each session lasts 30 minutes. The exact number of sessions may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the client’s response to treatment. Types II, III and IV will involve post-surgery rehab protocols.
Intensity And Frequency
The intensity and frequency of the shockwaves are carefully adjusted based on the client’s pain tolerance and the characteristics of the tear.
Minimal Downtime
For a type I tear clients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment, although they will be advised to avoid strenuous, high-impact or over-head activities for a short period if possible.
Post-Treatment Sensation
Some clients may experience mild soreness or swelling in the treated area. This typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Labral Tears
Non-Invasive
Focused shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment, avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with surgical intervention.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain reduction after just a few sessions, improving their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
Accelerated Healing
The therapy promotes faster healing of the surrounding tissue often reducing the overall recovery time compared to other treatments.
Long Lasting Results
By addressing the root causes of the labral tear, focused shockwave therapy combined with physiotherapy provides long-term relief and can reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating some labral tears, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for a Shoulder Labral Tear
Fast recovery time
If there is a need for quick recovery, such as an upcoming event, competition, or work-related activity.
History of labral tear
If you have a history of labral tears or related shoulder issues that have not responded well to previous alternative treatments.
Severe pain is limiting activity
If the pain is severe and significantly limits your ability to perform daily activities, particularly involving overhead movements or lifting.
Avoid or minimise medication
For those who wish to avoid or minimise the use of medications, such as anti-inflammatories or corticosteroid injections, due to potential side effects.
Calcium deposits
If imaging investigations (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound) show calcium deposits in the surrounding tendons (calcific tendonitis).
Focused shockwave therapy can reduce pain and promote healing in the early stages of a type I labral tear, preventing further deterioration of the labrum, and help with post-surgery rehabilitation for types II, III, and IV tears.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
Received 6 weeks treat on shoulder and I was very pleased with the outcome, Nim gave me guidance on further work after treatment which to strengthen both shoulders next and hips.
Excellent!!!!
I first found Nim and her Shockwaves treatment in 2020 when I had severe Plantar Fasciitis in one foot - I couldn’t walk at all, it was horrendous. She had me back on my feet with Shockwaves treatment and specially made insoles.
Then last October I had a bad fall and broke two vertebrae in my upper back and damaged the surrounding muscles - I was in total agony. Thankfully I was able to see Nim, and after having Shockwaves treatment for a few weeks the pain was more or less gone. She also gave me stretching exercises etc.
I will always return to Nim whenever I need to. I say she has “magic hands” as she finds the problem immediately and her massages are second to none!
I highly recommend her as she’s also a really lovely person.
I am delighted with the results on my Dupuytren's nodule. After 5 sessions of shockwave therapy with Nim, the nodule in my hand has reduced to a fraction of its size, it is no longer painful and is not pulling my finger in. It was a massive relief to find a treatment that can be done early for this condition and without the need for invasive painful surgery, injections or radiation. Several weeks after the treatment finished it is still continuing to improve. Shockwave therapy does feels a bit strange and uncomfortable at first but you very quickly get used to it and I had no ill effects from the treatment. I can highly recommend Nim and shockwave therapy.
I’ve been seeing Nim since 2019 for various badminton-related injuries, and I can’t recommend her enough! Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but she always takes the time to explain exactly what she’s doing and why. I really appreciate her approach—she believes that the more you know, the better you can take care of yourself, and I’ve learned so much from her over the years.
Nim is also a shockwave treatment specialist, and I’ve recommended her to many of my badminton colleagues, especially those who could benefit from this particular therapy. Her friendly demeanor combined with her expertise makes every session comfortable and effective. If you’re in need of physiotherapy or considering shockwave treatment, Nim is definitely the person to see!
My Morton's Neuroma : NHS cortisone injections made no difference to my painful stiff and inflamed foot pad. I did not want surgery so found Shockwave and Nim. She gave me a very thorough examination and identified issues with my spine and hips that did not help. After a series of Shockwave treatments and advice on stretching, my right foot improved becoming soft and much less painful. I decided to have a follow up series of treatment this summer. Although not cured, compared to 2 years ago when I could not walk for more than 10 minutes if at all, I can now be on my feet wslking for hours. Plus the stretching advice and motivation has helped with my hip mobility too.
