Conditions Treated Hip Hip Labral Tears

Hip Labral Tears

A hip labral tear refers to damage or injury to the labrum, a piece of cartilage that lines the socket of the hip joint. The labrum acts as a cushion and stabilizer for the hip joint, providing support and helping to distribute the forces exerted on the joint during movement.

Causes of hip labral tears can vary and may include:

  • Trauma: Direct impact to the hip joint, such as a fall or collision, can cause a tear in the labrum.
  • Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve repetitive twisting or pivoting motions of the hip, such as certain sports like soccer, hockey, or ballet, can gradually wear down the labrum and lead to tears over time.
  • Structural Abnormalities: Certain anatomical variations in the hip joint, such as hip impingement (femoroacetabular impingement), can increase the risk of labral tears by causing abnormal contact between the ball and socket of the hip joint.
  • Degenerative Changes: As we age, the labrum may weaken and become more susceptible to tears due to natural wear and tear on the joint.
  • Joint Hypermobility: Excessive flexibility or laxity in the hip joint can place increased stress on the labrum and make it more prone to injury.

Symptoms of a hip labral tear can include hip pain, stiffness, clicking or locking sensations in the hip joint, and decreased range of motion. It's important to seek a medical evaluation if you experience persistent hip pain or any of these symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and improve outcomes.

Most Common Hip Labral Tears

Anterior hip labral tears occur at the front portion of the acetabular labrum, often resulting from activities that involve repetitive flexion and rotation of the hip joint, such as running or certain sports movements. Patients may experience symptoms such as anterior groin pain, clicking or catching sensations in the hip, and limited range of motion. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging studies like MRI, and possibly diagnostic hip injections.

Treatment options for anterior hip labral tears range from conservative measures like physical therapy and activity modification to more invasive interventions such as hip arthroscopy for severe or persistent cases. Arthroscopic surgery aims to repair or debride the torn labrum, alleviate symptoms, and restore normal hip function, ultimately allowing patients to return to their desired level of activity with reduced pain and improved mobility.

Posterior hip labral tears occur at the back portion of the acetabular labrum and are often associated with activities that involve repeated hyperextension and external rotation of the hip joint, such as ballet or hockey. Patients with posterior hip labral tears may experience deep buttock pain, a sensation of catching or locking in the hip, and discomfort with prolonged sitting or squatting. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, imaging studies like MRI or CT arthrography, and possibly diagnostic injections to confirm the diagnosis.

In cases where conservative treatment fails to provide relief, surgical intervention such as hip arthroscopy may be recommended to repair the torn labrum, address any underlying structural abnormalities, and alleviate symptoms, ultimately allowing patients to regain hip function and return to their desired activities with improved comfort and mobility.

Specialized Hip Labral Tear Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland

Explore specialized care for hip labral tears at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Our dedicated team of orthopedic specialists offers advanced treatment options tailored to alleviate your symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Whether you're experiencing hip pain, clicking, or limited range of motion, we're here to help you find relief and restore function. Contact us at (301) 515-0900 or schedule your appointment online to begin your journey towards relief and improved hip health.