Hip Labral Tears

A hip labral tear is an injury to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that lines the socket of the hip joint. The labrum helps improve joint stability, distribute load, and allow smooth hip movement. When the labrum is damaged, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced hip function.

Hip labral tears may occur due to repetitive hip loading, twisting or pivoting movements, or trauma. They are commonly associated with underlying hip conditions such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) but can also occur in active individuals without a clear cause.

Common symptoms include:

• Groin or deep hip pain
• Clicking, catching, or locking sensations in the hip
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Pain with prolonged sitting, walking, running, or twisting movements
• Feeling of instability or weakness around the hip

Physiotherapy management focuses on:

• Reducing pain and improving movement tolerance 
• Restoring hip strength, particularly around the glutes and core
• Improving hip mobility and control
• Modifying activities and managing load
• Supporting a gradual and safe return to sport or daily activity