The labrum of the hip is the cartilage that surrounds the ball and socket joint of the hip and helps provide lubrication so the joint can function properly. The labrum also acts as a shock absorber preventing damage to the joint. Athletes who engage in contact sports or those that require long episodes of running are at heightened risk of Hip Labral Tears.
Labral Tears of the Hip generally occur in two forms: degenerative tears and traumatic tears.
Degenerative Labral Tears
Degenerative Labral Tears occur over time as a result of wear and tear. Microtraumas cause small tears in the cartilage the begin to weaken the labrum. Eventually, these tears compromise the integrity of the labrum until the labrum tears. This is most often seen in athletes or those who are in the early stages of arthritis of the hip.
Traumatic Labral Tears
Traumatic Labral Tears occur as a result of a sudden impact or injury to the labrum. Sudden impacts or injuries can be a result of falls, sports injuries or an unnatural and forceful motion of the hip.
Signs and Symptoms of Hip Labral Tears can include:
- Hip pain
- Groin pain
- A “clicking” or “popping” sound in the hip
- Limited range of motion in the hip
- Pain that intensifies during or after activity