From the Guidelines
A hip labral tear often presents with symptoms such as pain in the hip or groin area, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities, and may be accompanied by a clicking, locking, or catching sensation in the hip joint, as well as stiffness and limited range of motion 1. The symptoms of a labral tear of the hip can vary, but common complaints include:
- Pain in the hip or groin area, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities
- A clicking, locking, or catching sensation in the hip joint
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, walking, or athletic activities
- Radiation of pain to the buttock or thigh
- Feeling unstable on their feet or experiencing a giving way sensation in the hip These symptoms occur because the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket, helps stabilize the joint and create a seal for proper joint lubrication, and when torn, this function is compromised, leading to friction, inflammation, and pain 1.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing a hip labral tear can be challenging, and a comprehensive approach is essential, including clinical examination and diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or CT arthrography 1. Initial treatment typically includes rest, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy focusing on hip strengthening and stability, and if conservative measures fail, medical evaluation may lead to corticosteroid injections or, in severe cases, surgical repair through arthroscopy 1. It is essential to exclude other conditions, such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome, acetabular dysplasia, and other musculoskeletal conditions, before diagnosing a hip labral tear 1.
Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment of a hip labral tear are crucial to prevent further joint damage and the development of osteoarthritis, and to improve the patient's quality of life and reduce morbidity and mortality 1.
From the Research
Symptoms of a Labral Tear of the Hip
The symptoms of a labral tear of the hip, also known as an acetabular labrum tear, can vary but commonly include:
- Anterior hip or groin pain, which is the most common complaint among patients with labral tears 2
- Mechanical symptoms, such as clicking or locking of the hip joint 3
- Pain that may be exacerbated by activities that involve hip movement, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs
Diagnosis and Examination
Diagnosing a labral tear can be challenging, as the symptoms may be nonspecific and similar to those of other hip conditions. The diagnosis may involve:
- A physical examination, including tests such as the anterior hip impingement test 2 or the IROP test 4
- Imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) or computed tomography arthrography, to visualize the labrum and other structures of the hip joint 2, 4
- A thorough patient history and clinical examination to rule out other potential causes of symptoms, such as lumbopelvic or extra-articular pathologies 5
Associated Conditions
Labral tears are often associated with other conditions, including: