Hip Labral Tear

Diagnosing Hip Labral Tear

Hip labral tears often go undiagnosed because their symptoms mimic those of other injuries to the soft tissue of the hip.

Signs & Symptoms

Hip labral tear symptoms may include:

• Catching or locking feeling in the hip joint
• Clicking sound when moving the hip
• Limited range of motion in the hip or leg
• Pain in the hip, groin or buttocks
• Stiffness or instability in the hip

Diagnosis

To diagnose a hip labral tear, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may ask you a few questions about your injury. In addition, imaging tests may include:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)—to create detailed images of the bones and internal structures of your hip.
• X-ray—to get additional images of your hip.

Hip Labral Tear Treatment

Treatment for a hip labral tear depends on the severity of your injury. We offer nonsurgical and surgical treatment options.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Your personalized treatment plan may include the following nonsurgical options:

• Ice—to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Activity modification—to rest the hip and allow for healing.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)—for pain management.
• Physical therapy—to improve hip mobility and function.

Surgical Treatments

Severe labral tears that are unresponsive to traditional nonsurgical treatments may require surgery, such as arthroscopy—a minimally invasive surgery to repair or remove the torn tissue.