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.
I’ve been dealing with chronic lower back pain and sciatica for years, and after trying countless treatments, I finally found real relief here. Nim has been fantastic from start to finish — professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. I recently had a series of shockwave therapy sessions combined with physiotherapy, and the results have been impressive. I’ve noticed a real reduction in pain and stiffness, and I’m finally able to move more freely again. Highly recommended to anyone struggling with long-term back issues!
I can't recommend Nim enough - she isn't just a shockwave therapist (which is an amazing type of therapy in itself) but she's also a very practised and knowledgeable physiotherapist. I've been to conventional physio (both private and on the NHS) and nothing has looked at actually solving the problem that causes the pain, leading to a worsening condition of the joint itself and ever increasing pain. Nim has stopped all of that, and been able to use a holistic approach and combine it with shockwave and her specialist knowledge to treat the problem, not just the symptoms. I regret the years spent with other treatments and wish I had found her sooner!
I have known Nim now for two years and her treatment and expertise with her shock wave machine has been exceptionally good. First and foremost, Nim is very knowledgeable about her profession with vast experience in the areas of physiotherapy and shock wave treatment. More recently I have been treated with various problems on my legs mainly tendonopathy/tendonosis around my Achilles and hamstrings /thighs. The treatment is excellent, Nim explains the problems clearly and offers advice and consultation throughout the two months I’ve been seeing her. I’m very grateful as I have had pain for several years and can finally see a path forward without pain. I can highly recommend her and her treatment/facilities!! And thank you Nim!
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
