A hip labral tear occurs when there is damage to the ring of cartilage (labrum) along the outside rim of the socket of your hip joint. Falls or the wear and tear of repetitive activities are common causes of this injury. Those who participate in sports like hockey, soccer, football, golf, and ballet are at an increased risk for a hip labral tear.

Symptoms of a labral tear in the hip include:

• Locking, clicking, or catching sensation in your hip
• Pain in your hip or groin
• Stiffness or difficulty moving your hip

If you think you may have experienced a labral tear, the University of Miami Sports Medicine doctors can treat it and help reduce your pain.

Tests

Physical examination
Your doctor will conduct a complete physical examination and collect your health history to help make the diagnosis.

Treatments

Ice treatment
Your doctor may recommend that you apply ice to your hip three to four times each day.

Pain medication
Your specialist may prescribe anti-inflammatory or other pain medication to help control the pain of your labral tear while you’re undergoing treatment.

Physical therapy
In many cases, your health care provider will prescribe rehabilitation therapy. Our physical therapists establish a unique plan of care that includes specific interventions for your condition and situation to help ease pain and improve mobility.

Surgery
If your labral tear is not responsive to other treatments, you may need to undergo surgery. Your sports medicine team will work with you to explain your options, if surgery is needed.

Why Choose the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute?

World-class care in an academic health system. As a research and teaching institution, we treat children and adults with proven, leading-edge procedures based on clinical studies performed at the Miller School of Medicine. Our doctors, residents, nurses, and therapists work together to create healthy outcomes.