Labrum lesions can be categorized according to their location and severity as follows:

1. SLAP lesion (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior): Injury to the upper labrum, often caused by sudden overhead movements or traction forces.
2. Bankart lesion: Detachment of the anterior labrum due to repeated shoulder dislocations.
3. Posterior labrum lesion: Rarer than other forms, usually occurs due to falls or direct blows to the shoulder.
4. Degenerative labrum lesion: Caused by age-related wear or chronic stress.

The main causes of labrum lesions can be divided into several categories:

• Traumatic injuries: Falls on the outstretched arm or direct blows to the shoulder.
• Overuse: Repeated throwing motions or jerky movements, e.g., in swimmers, throwers, or weightlifters.
• Degenerative processes: Age-related wear of the cartilage tissue that weakens the labrum.
• Joint instability: Repeated shoulder dislocations can damage the labrum.

The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury, but often include:

• Pain when lifting the arm or during overhead movements.
• Cracking or snapping in the shoulder joint.
• Feeling of instability and loss of strength in the shoulder.
• Movement restrictions and uncertainty when gripping or supporting.

The diagnosis is made through a combination of medical history, clinical examination, and imaging techniques:

• Medical history: The doctor inquires about the exact location of the pain, the mechanism of the accident, and the symptoms.
• Clinical examination: Specific tests, such as the O'Brien test or apprehension test, help identify labrum injuries.
• Imaging techniques:
  • MRI: High-resolution imaging of the labrum and possible accompanying injuries.
  • X-ray: Exclusion of bony misalignments or osteoarthritis.
  • CT arthrography: Precise imaging of the labrum through contrast medium examination. 

Conservative Therapy

In less severe cases, a labrum lesion can be treated conservatively:

• Physiotherapy: Exercises to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder muscles.
• Medication Therapy: NSAIDs for pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Rest: Avoidance of strenuous activities that overstrain the joint.
• Injections: Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation and pain.

Surgical Therapy

In severe or therapy-resistant labrum lesions, surgery is necessary:

• Arthroscopic Labrum Repair: Minimally invasive procedures to reattach or smooth the labrum.
• Labrum Reconstruction: Replacement of the damaged labrum with the body's own or artificial material.
• Stabilizing Procedures: Additional procedures to restore joint stability, e.g., in cases of repeated dislocations.

To prevent labrum lesions, the following measures are recommended:

• Regular muscle training: Strengthening the muscles to stabilize the shoulder joint.
• Avoiding overload: Limiting intense sports activities or taking timely breaks.
• Warming up before sports: Mobilization and stretching to prepare the joint for stress.
• Correct movement pattern: Proper execution of movements in sports and everyday life to avoid incorrect loading.
• Protection against injuries: Use of appropriate protective clothing in high-risk sports.