Hip Labral Tears (Femoroacetabular Labral Tears)

Summary

In simple terms, a hip labral tear is damage to the ring of cartilage that helps keep the hip joint stable. It can cause pain in the groin, clicking in the hip, and trouble with movement. Doctors use an exam and MRI to find the problem. Many people get better with rest and physical therapy, but some may need surgery such as a hip arthroscopy if the pain does not improve. Early treatment can help protect the hip and keep it working well.

Anatomy of the Hip Joint and Labrum

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint. The ball is the top of the thigh bone (femoral head), and the socket is part of the pelvis called the acetabulum. The two surfaces are covered with smooth cartilage so they can move easily. Around the edge of the socket sits a ring of tough cartilage called the labrum (Figure 1). The labrum acts like a seal. It helps keep the ball centered in the socket, improves joint stability, and helps hold joint fluid inside the hip for smooth movement. This seal also helps absorb shock and protect the joint during activities like walking, running, and jumping.

Clinical Presentation

A hip labral tear, also known as a femoroacetabular labral tear, happens when this ring of cartilage becomes damaged or torn (Figure 1). Tears can occur from injury, such as a fall or sports collision, but they often develop slowly over time. One common cause is femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), where the bones of the hip do not fit together perfectly and pinch the labrum during movement. Symptoms usually include pain in the front of the hip or groin, clicking or catching in the joint, stiffness, and pain with twisting or prolonged sitting. Athletes who play sports that involve cutting or pivoting, such as soccer or hockey, are at higher risk. However, labral tears can also occur in active adults or even in people without a clear injury.

Diagnosing a Hip Joint Labral Tear

Doctors diagnose a hip labral tear by first asking about symptoms and examining the hip. Certain movements on a physical examination may reproduce pain or a catching feeling.

X-rays are often used to look at the shape of the bones and check for signs of impingement or arthritis. However, the labrum itself does not show up well on a regular X-ray. An MRI is usually needed to see the soft tissues of the hip. Sometimes a special MRI with contrast dye injected into the joint, called an MR arthrogram, gives a clearer picture of the labrum and can help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of a Femoroacetabular Labral Tear

Treatment usually starts without surgery. Rest, activity changes, and anti-inflammatory medications may reduce pain. Physical therapy plays an important role. Therapy focuses on improving hip strength, flexibility, and movement patterns to reduce stress on the joint.

If symptoms continue despite appropriate of non-surgical care, arthroscopic hip surgery may be considered. During this minimally invasive procedure, a surgeon uses small instruments and a camera to repair or trim the torn labrum. If impingement is present, the surgeon may also reshape the bone to prevent further pinching. Surgery is usually recommended when pain limits daily life or sports and imaging confirms a labral tear that matches the symptoms.

Edited by Stephen Pinney MD, February 22nd 2026.