A Labral Tear of the hip occurs when there is damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage surrounding the hip joint socket (acetabulum). The labrum provides stability to the joint by acting as a seal, helping the femoral head (the ball part of the joint) stay within the socket. It also helps cushion the joint and evenly distribute force.
Hip Labral Tears are often caused by repetitive motions (such as in sports like soccer, hockey, or ballet), structural abnormalities like hip impingement, or traumatic injuries. Symptoms typically include sharp pain in the groin or hip, stiffness, and a catching or locking sensation in the joint during movement.
Treatment options range from rest and physical therapy to manage symptoms, to arthroscopic surgery to repair or remove the torn portion of the labrum if conservative methods don’t provide relief. Addressing a Labral Tear early can help prevent further joint damage and improve mobility.