What is a Labral Tear?

What is a Labral Tear?

The hip joint is one of the most flexible joints and al lows for great range of motion. It bears the weight of your body and the force of the hip and leg muscles. A hip labraI tear involves the ring of cartilage (labrum) that follows the outside rim of the socket of your hip joint. In addition to cushioning the hip joint, the labrum helps to hold the ball at the top of your thighbone securely within your hip socket. When this cartilage (labrum) is torn, it is called a labral tear.

What are the risk factors?

Trauma, repetitive motions or structural abnormalities can be causes of a labraI tear. Injury to or dislocation of the hip joint which can occur during a car accident or from playing contact sports such as football or hockey can cause a hip labraI tear. Sports-related and other physical activities, including the sudden twisting or pivoting motions common in golf or softball, can lead to joint wear and tear that ultimately results in a hip labral tear. Some people are born with hip problems that can accelerate wear and tear of the joint and eventually cause a hip labraI tear.

What are the symptoms?

• A locking, clicking or catching sensation in your hip joint
• Pain in your hip or groin
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in your hip joint
• Radiating pain into buttocks and thigh

What are the treatment options?

• Physical rehabilitation that can help increase range of motion and hip strength and stability
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can relieve pain and reduce inflammation; Pain can also be controlled temporarily with an injection of corticosteroids into the joint as prescribed by your PCP and/or orthopedic doctor.
• Arthroscopic surgical intervention in cases of severe injury
• Active Release Technique to soft tissue structures in the lumbar and hip region

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Exercise programming and prevention strategies?

It is important to include an exercise protocol that focuses on regaining strength and flexibility. Soft tissue work around hip musculature using a foam roller can be helpful. Limit activities which may internally rotate the hip such as golf or tennis during times of acute flare up. As for all exercise protocols it is important to conduct the exercises on a regular basis for minimum of 6-8 weeks. Discuss these options with your health care professional to determine which would be the best treatment approach for you.