Bankart Lesion can be defined as an injury to the anterior part of the labrum, the fibrous cartilage attached to the shoulder socket that helps to maintain the stability of the joint. It is usually caused due to subluxations of the glenohumeral joint. When this occurs, the shoulder is likely to suffer repetitive dislocations, causing further damage to other structures of the joint. The condition may either affect only the labrum (soft bankart) or involve the glenoid (bony bankart) as well.
Causes
- Repetitive overhead activities
- Sports-related injuries
- Direct hit or impact at the front of the shoulder
- Recurrent dislocation
- Falling onto an outstretched hand
- Repeated throwing movements
Symptoms
- Intense pain and discomfort
- Inflammation
- Tenderness to touch
- Feeling of instability, specifically with overhead movements
- Catching and popping sensation in the shoulder
- Restricted range of motion
- Weakness in the shoulder and arm muscles
Diagnosis
- Diagnosing a Bankart Lesion involves a thorough physical examination and review of patient’s medical history.
- The orthopedic doctor may also recommend certain imaging tests, such as X-ray, CT scan or MRI, to rule out a fracture or other shoulder injury.
Treatment
- RICE Therapy: Initial treatment for Bankart Lesion may include following RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) therapy to control pain and inflammation. The patient may also be advised to immobilize the shoulder to allow the injured tissues to heal.
- Medications: The orthopedic doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines to provide relief from pain and discomfort. Injections: If the patient is experiencing severe pain, the doctor may recommend administering cortisone injection to the area around the torn cartilage. This will help to temporarily relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Once the pain and swelling subside, the patient may need to undergo a rehabilitation program to restore the range of motion of the shoulder joint. Physical therapy for Bankart Lesion focuses on regaining muscle control, strength and joint functionality.
- Surgery: In severe cases or patients having a history of repeated dislocations, orthopedic surgery may be recommended. The procedure involves reattaching the torn ligament to the shoulder socket in order to reinstate the stability of the joint.
The doctors at OrthoTexas, specialize in the treatment of Bankart Lesion and other orthopedic conditions of the shoulder. We use the most advanced surgical and non-surgical techniques to relieve pain and restore the strength of the joint.