Hip Labral Tear

What Is a Hip Labral Tear?

The acetabular labrum is a ring of specialized cartilage resting on the edge of the bony socket (acetabulum) of the hip joint. The function of the labrum is to deepen the socket and provide a “suction seal” to the hip joint. Tears of the acetabular labrum are becoming more commonly recognized.

Hip labral tears can be due to a single acute traumatic event. Acute labral tears usually result from a sports injury, fall, or accident. They are commonly associated with sudden, twisting maneuvers that cause immediate pain in the hip.

How Can Hip Arthritis Lead to a Labral Tear?

More commonly, however, labral tears are degenerative in nature. Degenerative labral tears are chronic injuries that occur as a result of repetitive wear and tear over time and can be seen in the early stages of hip arthritis. The most common cause of degenerative labral tears is a condition known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

How is a Labral Tear Treated?

Treatment for labral tears consists of activity modification, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. If these measures are unsuccessful, the labrum can be debrided or repaired using a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique.