August 2025
Laura Kavanagh, Physiotherapist
Understanding Bankart Lesions: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Shoulder injuries are common, especially among active individuals and athletes. One injury that often goes under the radar until it causes ongoing problems is the Bankart lesion.
While the name may sound technical, the issue itself is relatively straightforward — and important to address if you’ve had a shoulder dislocation or ongoing instability.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Bankart lesions: what they are, what causes them, how to recognise the symptoms, and how they can be treated.
Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone recovering from a shoulder injury, this guide is designed to help you understand your options — and when to seek help.
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What Is a Bankart Lesion?
A Bankart lesion is an injury to the labrum, the soft cartilage that lines the socket of your shoulder joint. Think of the labrum as a cushion that helps keep your upper arm bone (the humerus) securely in place within the shoulder socket.
When the shoulder dislocates — especially forwards, which is the most common direction — it can tear the labrum at the front of the shoulder. This specific tear is what we call a Bankart lesion.
Why does it matter? Because the labrum helps stabilise your shoulder. When it’s damaged, your shoulder can become loose, unstable, and more prone to future dislocations.
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Causes of Bankart Lesions
The most common cause of a Bankart lesion is a shoulder dislocation — particularly the first time someone experiences one. This can happen during:
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Sporting activities, especially contact sports like rugby, AFL, or basketball
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Falls, particularly onto an outstretched arm
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Trauma, such as a car accident or workplace injury
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In some cases, repetitive shoulder strain over time may contribute, although this is less common
Younger adults and athletes are more likely to develop a Bankart lesion after a dislocation, as their joints tend to be more mobile and the force of the injury is often greater.
Can You Get a Bankart Lesion After Dislocating Your Shoulder?
Yes — in fact, a Bankart lesion is one of the most common injuries associated with a first-time shoulder dislocation, particularly in younger patients. Research shows that up to 90% of individuals under 30 who experience a dislocated shoulder will also sustain some type of labral injury, often a Bankart lesion.
Unfortunately, once this damage occurs, the risk of recurrent dislocations increases significantly — especially without proper treatment. That’s why it’s important not to ignore a dislocation, even if you manage to "pop it back in" or the pain goes away after a few days.
Signs and Symptoms of a Bankart Lesion
So how do you know if you might have a Bankart lesion?
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but some of the most common signs include:
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A feeling of instability or looseness in the shoulder, as though it might "slip out" of place
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Recurring dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations)
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Pain, especially during overhead movements or certain positions
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Catching, clicking, or locking sensations in the shoulder
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Weakness or reduced range of motion
It’s important to note that a Bankart lesion often doesn’t heal on its own. If left untreated, the instability may lead to further dislocations and more damage over time — which is why early diagnosis and management are key.
How to Diagnose a Bankart Lesion
If you’re experiencing ongoing shoulder issues — especially after a dislocation — your GP or physiotherapist may refer you to a specialist for further investigation.
The diagnostic process typically involves:
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Clinical assessment: A physical examination will assess shoulder stability, strength, range of motion, and any discomfort during certain movements.
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Imaging:
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MRI scans are often used to confirm a Bankart lesion, especially when combined with contrast dye to highlight soft tissue damage.
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CT scans or X-rays may be used to rule out associated bone damage or fractures.
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Repairing a Bankart Lesion
So, what can be done if you’ve been diagnosed with a Bankart lesion?
Treatment options depend on the severity of the injury and your lifestyle needs, but typically fall into two categories: non-surgical and surgical.
Non-Surgical Management
In milder cases — especially if it’s a first-time injury and there are no recurring dislocations — conservative management may be recommended. This can include:
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Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder joint
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Activity modification to avoid positions that provoke instability
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Anti-inflammatory medication to manage pain and swelling
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Monitoring over time to assess whether symptoms improve
However, for many patients — particularly younger or more active individuals — surgery may offer the best chance at restoring full function and preventing future dislocations.
Surgical Repair
If the shoulder continues to feel unstable, or if the Bankart lesion is large, surgery may be recommended. The most common procedure is called arthroscopic Bankart repair, a minimally invasive surgery where the torn labrum is reattached to the shoulder socket using small anchors and sutures.
Key benefits of arthroscopic repair include:
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Shorter hospital stay
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Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
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Faster recovery time compared to open surgery
Post-surgery, a structured rehabilitation program is crucial. This usually involves wearing a sling for a few weeks, followed by several months of physiotherapy to restore strength and range of motion.
Most people can expect to return to regular activity or sport within 4 to 6 months, although this varies depending on the individual and the demands of their sport or job.
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When to Seek Help
If you've experienced a shoulder dislocation, or if your shoulder feels unstable or painful — particularly with certain movements — it's a good idea to get it assessed by a health professional.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent long-term damage and give you the best chance of a full recovery. In the Australian private practice setting, you can typically access imaging and specialist care quickly, especially with private health cover or an appropriate referral.
Final Thoughts
A Bankart lesion may not be widely known outside of orthopaedic clinics, but for those affected, it can cause ongoing pain, instability, and disruption to daily life or sport. The good news is that, with the right care — whether through physiotherapy or surgical repair — most people can return to full activity and avoid future shoulder problems.
If you’re concerned about your shoulder or want to discuss your recovery options, don’t wait. Book a consultation with a qualified physiotherapist or orthopaedic specialist to get the answers — and the support — you need.
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