Hip impingement and labral tear

Overview

Extra bone at the hip joint pinches the labrum, the cartilage rim, during bending.

It's common in athletes who squat, pivot, or kick.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Groin pain
• Hip pain

Less common

• Clicking or catching

When to get medical care

Causes

Bone shape.

Who is more likely to get it

• Athletes
• Athletes in twisting sports: Higher risk
• People with hip shape differences: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Hip osteoarthritis: Can start earlier

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• X-ray:
• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Avoid deep hip bending
• Avoid deep squats
• Strengthen hip and core

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor) or a sports medicine doctor.
• A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Young active adults: Most common.

Outlook

Therapy helps many; surgery for some.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Hip impingement and labral tear