Labral tear

The labrum is the cartilage that lines the socket (acetabulum) in which the ball of the hipbone (femur) sits. This cartilage provides cushioning for the joint. It also helps keep the ball in the socket. A tear in the labral cartilage can result from injury or degeneration, such as from osteo-arthritis.

In most cases, labral tears don't cause symptoms and don't need surgical repair. But occasionally they can cause symptoms such as:

bulletLocking or catching in the hip joint
bulletPain in the hip or groin area

Labral tears are difficult to detect on physical examination. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis with contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment may include:

bulletPhysical therapy
bulletCorticosteroid injections
bulletArthroscopic surgery

 

By Mayo Clinic staff