Arthroscopic Labral Repair
This minimally invasive procedure reattaches the torn labrum to the shoulder socket, reducing instability and pain. It is particularly suitable for athletes and active individuals who have had dislocations or instability.
This minimally invasive procedure reattaches the torn labrum to the shoulder socket, reducing instability and pain. It is particularly suitable for athletes and active individuals who have had dislocations or instability.
The surgery itself is painless due to anaesthesia. Post-operative pain is expected but manageable with medication and physiotherapy.
Arthroscopic labral repair is effective for reducing pain and preventing dislocations. It has a high success rate, especially when followed by appropriate rehabilitation.
What Does Surgery Involve for Me?
After arthroscopic labral repair, a sling is usually worn for about four to six weeks. The exact duration depends on the size and location of the tear, the type of repair performed, and individual healing rates. The purpose of the sling is to protect the repaired labrum by limiting shoulder movement during the early healing phase. It helps prevent accidental stretching or tension on the repaired tissue, which could compromise the success of the repair. Most patients will need to wear the sling full-time for the first few weeks, including while sleeping. Around the fourth or fifth week, the sling may be gradually removed for gentle exercises or daily activities as guided by the surgeon and physiotherapist. During this time, it’s important to avoid lifting, reaching, or sudden movements. Patients should also take care when dressing or performing personal tasks to avoid stressing the shoulder. While it can be inconvenient, consistent sling use significantly improves outcomes and reduces the likelihood of re-injury. Dr Oliver Khoo typically tailors the immobilisation period to each patient’s specific repair and recovery progress, ensuring the shoulder heals optimally while maintaining comfort and mobility in the rest of the arm.
Physiotherapy typically begins within the first one to two weeks following arthroscopic labral repair, though initial exercises are gentle and focused on maintaining mobility without compromising the surgical repair. In the early stages, therapy aims to prevent stiffness and maintain flexibility in surrounding joints such as the elbow, wrist, and hand while the shoulder remains immobilised in a sling. Passive range-of-motion exercises—where the therapist moves the shoulder without the patient’s active effort—usually start after two to three weeks, depending on the surgeon’s protocol. Around the six-week mark, once the sling is discontinued, patients gradually progress to active-assisted and then active movements. Strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilisers generally begin around the 10–12-week stage, once the repair has adequately healed. A structured physiotherapy program is crucial for restoring motion, strength, and stability while minimising the risk of stiffness or re-tear. Recovery timelines vary, and therapy is tailored to the individual’s condition, activity level, and surgical findings. Dr Khoo works closely with physiotherapists to ensure patients progress safely through each phase of rehabilitation for the best possible long-term shoulder function.
Pain after arthroscopic labral repair varies between individuals but generally follows a predictable pattern. The first few days after surgery are typically the most uncomfortable due to swelling and inflammation around the joint. During this period, prescribed pain relief, ice therapy, and rest play an essential role in maintaining comfort. Most patients notice a significant reduction in pain within two to three weeks as the initial inflammation subsides. Discomfort may persist in the form of stiffness, mild aching, or muscle soreness, particularly after physiotherapy sessions or prolonged sling use. By six to eight weeks, pain levels usually decrease considerably, although intermittent discomfort can continue during movement or exercise for several months. Complete resolution of pain may take up to six months as tissues heal and strength is restored. It’s important to remember that some residual stiffness or occasional aching, especially with weather changes or strenuous activity, is common during recovery. Dr Khoo ensures patients have a comprehensive pain management plan that includes medication, physiotherapy, and home strategies like ice packs and gentle stretching to promote comfortable healing and long-term recovery.
Yes, several activity restrictions are essential following arthroscopic labral repair to protect the healing labrum and ensure a successful outcome. For the first four to six weeks, the arm must remain in a sling, and shoulder movements such as lifting, reaching overhead, or rotating the arm are strictly limited. Activities that involve pushing, pulling, or sudden jerking motions should be avoided. As physiotherapy progresses, movements are reintroduced gradually, following the guidance of both the surgeon and physiotherapist. Driving is generally not recommended while the sling is worn, as reaction time and control may be impaired. Light daily tasks can usually resume around the six-week mark, but heavier lifting, sports, and overhead activities should be deferred until the shoulder regains sufficient strength and stability—typically after four to six months. Contact sports or occupations requiring repetitive arm movement may require longer recovery times. Dr Khoo emphasises adherence to the rehabilitation plan, as premature return to activity can risk damaging the repair and prolong recovery. Gradual progression ensures safe, sustainable return to normal life without compromising the surgical result.
The overall recovery time following arthroscopic labral repair varies depending on the severity of the injury, the complexity of the repair, and individual healing rates. In most cases, patients can expect a total recovery period of four to six months before returning to unrestricted activity. The early weeks are focused on immobilisation and gentle passive movement to protect the repair while maintaining flexibility. Around six weeks post-surgery, patients begin active motion and light strengthening under physiotherapy supervision. By three months, most regain good movement and can begin more dynamic exercises aimed at rebuilding shoulder stability. Full recovery—including return to high-demand activities, manual work, or competitive sports—may take up to nine months in some cases. Recovery is not just about tissue healing but also regaining muscle control, strength, and confidence in the shoulder. Dr Khoo monitors patients closely during this process, adjusting rehabilitation intensity and milestones based on progress. Patience and consistency with physiotherapy are key, as rushing recovery can compromise long-term outcomes. Ultimately, most patients achieve excellent shoulder stability and function with time and proper guidance.
Most patients regain near or full range of motion following arthroscopic labral repair, although this depends on factors such as the extent of the initial injury, tissue quality, and adherence to rehabilitation. Early stiffness is normal and expected due to immobilisation in a sling and healing tissues tightening around the joint. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in gradually restoring movement through a structured program of passive, active-assisted, and active exercises. By three months post-surgery, many patients achieve significant improvements in mobility, with near-normal range of motion often returning between six and nine months. However, it is important to progress carefully, as forcing movement too soon can jeopardise the repair. Long-term outcomes are typically excellent, particularly when patients follow postoperative instructions diligently and maintain regular physiotherapy sessions. Some individuals may experience mild residual tightness, particularly with overhead or behind-the-back movements, but this usually does not interfere with daily activities or sports. Dr Khoo tailors recovery programs to maximise mobility while preserving joint stability, ensuring the shoulder functions optimally for each patient’s lifestyle and physical demands.
Yes, returning to sports after arthroscopic labral repair is achievable for most patients, though it requires time, commitment, and adherence to a structured rehabilitation program. The timeline for return varies based on the type of sport, the demands placed on the shoulder, and the individual’s recovery progress. Non-contact and lower-intensity activities, such as running or cycling, may resume around three months post-surgery, once shoulder movement is comfortable and stable. Overhead or contact sports—such as tennis, swimming, rugby, or weightlifting—typically require a recovery period of six to nine months to ensure the labrum has healed and strength has fully returned. A physiotherapist will focus on sport-specific exercises that rebuild shoulder endurance, coordination, and power before clearance is given for full participation. Dr Khoo conducts a detailed assessment before allowing patients to return to competitive play, ensuring that range of motion, strength, and stability are symmetrical and reliable. Rushing back too early can risk re-injury, so a gradual, guided approach is essential for long-term shoulder health and optimal athletic performance.
As with any surgical procedure, arthroscopic labral repair carries certain risks, though serious complications are uncommon. Common risks include infection, bleeding, stiffness, or persistent shoulder pain. Occasionally, the labrum may fail to heal properly, leading to recurrent instability or re-tear, particularly if postoperative restrictions are not followed. There is also a small risk of injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels, though this is rare due to the minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy. Stiffness and loss of motion can occur if rehabilitation is delayed or overly cautious, while premature or aggressive movement may compromise the repair. Other potential issues include blood clots, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and temporary numbness around the incision sites. Dr Khoo takes comprehensive precautions to minimise these risks, including strict sterile technique, meticulous surgical repair, and close postoperative monitoring. Following instructions carefully, attending all follow-up appointments, and engaging in supervised physiotherapy significantly reduce complication rates. Overall, the majority of patients experience excellent outcomes with restored stability, reduced pain, and improved function after recovery.
Preparing for arthroscopic labral repair involves both physical and practical steps to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery. Before surgery, patients undergo a detailed assessment, including imaging such as MRI to confirm the diagnosis and guide the surgical plan. It’s important to inform Dr Khoo of all current medications, as certain drugs like blood thinners or anti-inflammatories may need to be stopped prior to surgery. Maintaining general fitness and good nutrition can support healing, while exercises to strengthen the core and lower body can assist with mobility during recovery. Patients are usually advised to fast from midnight before the operation and to arrange transport home, as driving after anaesthesia is not allowed. Setting up a comfortable recovery area at home—with easy access to necessities and support for sleeping in a slightly upright position—can make the postoperative period much easier. Ice packs, loose clothing, and prescribed medications should be ready in advance. Dr Khoo’s team provides clear preoperative instructions and ensures each patient understands the procedure, risks, and expected recovery process, helping reduce anxiety and promote the best surgical outcomes.