From the Research
Symptoms of Hip Labral Tear
The symptoms of a hip labral tear, also known as an acetabular labral tear, can be nonspecific and may include:
- Anterior hip or groin pain, which is the most common complaint 1
- Hip dysfunction, which can be a major cause of symptoms in young patients 2
- Functional limitation, which can be associated with labral tears 3
Diagnosis and Presentation
The diagnosis of a hip labral tear requires a high index of suspicion, special attention to subtle patterns of presentation, and timely consideration for imaging studies 2. The clinical presentation of labral tears can be difficult to view in isolation from other hip articular pathologies, and physical therapists should understand the anatomical structures of the hip and recognize how lumbopelvic and extra-articular pathologies can contribute to symptoms and functional limitation 3. A positive anterior hip impingement test is a consistent physical examination finding in patients with labral tears 1.
Associated Pathologies
Labral tears are often associated with other hip pathologies, including: