A Bankart lesion is a specific type of injury to the shoulder joint that involves a tear of the anterior inferior glenoid labrum, the cartilage that lines the socket of the shoulder joint. This injury is commonly associated with shoulder instability, especially anterior shoulder dislocations.

Causes of a Bankart Lesion

1. Traumatic Shoulder Dislocation
   • The most common cause, usually from a high-impact force that pushes the humeral head (ball of the joint) out of the socket in the forward (anterior) direction.
   • Examples include falls on an outstretched arm, sports injuries, or accidents.
2. Recurrent Shoulder Dislocations
   • Repeated dislocations can further damage the labrum, leading to a chronic Bankart lesion.
3. Overhead Sports and Activities
   • Sports like volleyball, baseball, or swimming, which involve repetitive overhead arm movements, can cause stress on the labrum and increase the risk of injury.
4. Congenital or Acquired Shoulder Instability
   • People with naturally loose shoulder ligaments or a history of joint hypermobility are at greater risk.
5. Sudden, Forceful Movements
   • A sudden pulling or pushing motion involving the arm, especially with the arm extended or rotated outward, can result in a labral tear.

Symptoms of a Bankart Lesion

• Recurrent episodes of shoulder dislocation or subluxation (partial dislocation).
• A feeling of instability or the shoulder “giving way.”
• Pain during shoulder movement, especially overhead or rotational movements.
• Clicking, popping, or catching sensations in the shoulder joint.
• Reduced strength and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Treatment for a Bankart Lesion

Non-Surgical Treatment

1. Physical Therapy
   • Focuses on strengthening the rotator cuff muscles and scapular stabilizers to improve joint stability.
   • Proprioceptive exercises help enhance joint awareness and prevent further dislocations.
2. Activity Modification
   • Avoiding activities that increase the risk of dislocation or exacerbate symptoms.
3. Pain Management
   • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Immobilization
   • Wearing a sling temporarily after an initial dislocation to allow the shoulder to heal.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is often recommended for individuals with recurrent shoulder instability or in high-demand athletes. Common procedures include:

1. Arthroscopic Bankart Repair
   • A minimally invasive surgery where the torn labrum is reattached to the glenoid rim using sutures and anchors.
   • It restores stability to the shoulder.
2. Open Bankart Repair
   • Performed for more complex cases or when additional damage is present. The procedure involves a larger incision and direct repair of the labrum and surrounding tissues.
3. Latarjet Procedure
   • Recommended for individuals with significant bone loss or recurrent instability. It involves transferring a piece of bone from the coracoid process to the glenoid rim to provide additional support.
4. Capsular Shift or Tightening
   • Tightening the joint capsule to reduce excessive laxity.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

• Post-Surgery Rehab: Gradual reintroduction of range-of-motion exercises, followed by strengthening and functional activities.
• Recovery Timeline: Full recovery typically takes 4–6 months, depending on the extent of the injury and the individual’s commitment to rehabilitation.

Preventive Measures

• Strengthen shoulder muscles through regular exercises to maintain joint stability.
• Avoid positions or movements that put excessive stress on the shoulder, especially in contact sports.
• Proper warm-up and stretching before physical activities.
• Early management of shoulder instability to prevent progression to a Bankart lesion.