Hip Labral Tear

What is a Hip Labral Tear?

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket, providing stability and cushioning. A tear can occur from trauma, repetitive twisting, or structural issues like hip impingement. Athletes in sports with frequent pivoting, such as hockey, soccer, and golf, are at higher risk.

Common Symptoms

• Groin pain, often sharp with twisting or pivoting

• Clicking, catching, or locking in the hip

• Stiffness or limited range of motion

• Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or activity

Physical Therapist Diagnosis

A PT evaluates hip range of motion, joint mechanics, and performs special tests such as the FADIR or FABER test to reproduce symptoms. Strength and movement assessments help identify contributing factors. Imaging (MRI arthrogram) may confirm the diagnosis.

Why it Happens

Labral tears often result from repetitive hip flexion and rotation, structural abnormalities (femoroacetabular impingement), or acute trauma. Sports requiring quick rotations and directional changes put the hip at greater risk.

Why it Doesn’t Always Heal on Its Own

The labrum has poor blood supply, so tears rarely heal without intervention. Without therapy, symptoms may persist or worsen, especially if underlying mechanics are not corrected.

Ideal Physical Therapy Treatment

Rehab focuses on restoring hip mobility, improving stability, and reducing strain on the labrum. Dry needling can be used for secondary muscle tightness in the hip flexors, adductors, or glutes.

Key components include:

• Manual therapy to restore hip and pelvic motion

• Dry needling for surrounding muscle tightness and pain relief

• Strengthening of glutes and core for dynamic stability

• Movement retraining to reduce stress on the labrum

• Gradual return-to-sport progression

Expected Outcomes

Many athletes improve with structured PT, avoiding surgery. For those requiring surgery, pre- and post-operative therapy greatly enhances recovery.

Key Takeaway

Hip labral tears can be limiting, but with proper rehab many athletes return to full competition and reduce their risk of re-injury.