Hip Labral Tear

A hip labral tear is an injury affecting the labrum, a cartilage ring that lines the outer edge of the hip socket. This structure enhances joint stability, cushions the hip, and facilitates smooth movement.

Hip labral tears can result from traumatic injuries (e.g., car accidents) or high-impact sports like soccer, basketball, and skiing, which involve rapid twisting or directional changes. Over time, repetitive movements and age-related degeneration may also contribute to labral damage.

Many people with a hip labral tear experience no symptoms, but some may notice:

For mild tears and those with none or minimal symptoms, rest, pain relieving medication and physiotherapy may be enough to strengthen and stabilise the joint. The labrum itself will not heal on its on.

For serious tears or those causing pain or locking, surgery will be required. In most cases, this surgery can be done endocsopically where the labrum is repaired using keyhole surgery allowing for a faster recovery. Dr Yu will be able to advise on what options are suitable in each individual situation.