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Treatment for Hip Labral Tear 

The labrum is a pad of fibrocartilage deep in the hip joint. The hip is a ball-in-socket joint with the ball from the thigh bone (femur) and the socket from the pelvis (acetabulum). The labrum is a pad of cartilage that lies between the femoral head (ball) and the acetabulum (socket). It acts as a stabilizer and a shock absorber in the hip.

Labral Tear of the Hip FAQ

What Causes A Labral Tear of the Hip?

Labral tears are common in athletes and can result from a variety of causes, including trauma, repetitive motions, or underlying hip abnormalities.

What Are The Symptoms of A Labral Tear of the Hip?

Patients with a labral tear often experience pain deep in the hip joint. Other symptoms may include clicking, locking, or stiffness in the hip.

What Are The Treatment Options For A Labral Tear of the Hip?

If non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, activity modification, and medications do not alleviate symptoms, the tear may be repaired arthroscopically.

What Is the Procedure for Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into the hip joint to view, diagnose, and treat joint issues. The procedure involves:

  • Applying traction to pull the hip away from the socket, creating space for surgical instruments.
  • Making a small puncture (about the size of a buttonhole) for the arthroscope.
  • Guiding miniature instruments using the arthroscopic camera to address the damage.

The duration of the procedure depends on the extent of the damage and the work required for repair.

When Is Hip Arthroscopy Recommended?

Hip arthroscopy may be recommended for patients with painful hip conditions that do not respond to nonsurgical treatments, such as:

  • Rest
  • Physical therapy
  • Medications or injections to reduce inflammation

Inflammation in the hip joint, often caused by injury or disease, can result in swelling, pain, and stiffness. Hip arthroscopy helps address these issues effectively.