Acetabular Labrum Tears

What is Acetabular Labrum Tears?

The hip labrum serves as a crucial component of the hip joint, forming a protective cartilaginous ring around the rim of the acetabulum, which is the socket of the hip joint. Its primary function is to deepen and stabilise the hip socket, providing essential support during various movements and activities.

Beyond structural support, the hip labrum plays multiple roles in maintaining joint health and functionality. It acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the joint during weight-bearing activities and reducing impact-related stresses. Additionally, the labrum aids in joint lubrication, facilitating smooth and frictionless movement within the hip joint. Moreover, it helps distribute pressure evenly across the joint surface, promoting optimal biomechanics and reducing wear and tear.

Injuries to the acetabular labrum often occur as a result of trauma, which can be either a significant acute injury or repetitive micro-trauma over time. Several risk factors contribute to the development of labral tears, including conditions like femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), capsular laxity, or hip dysplasia, which alter the biomechanics of the hip joint and increase stress on the labrum.

When the hip labrum is torn, it can lead to additional damage to the surrounding cartilage (chondral damage) and may contribute to early degenerative changes in the joint, ultimately increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.

The clinical presentation of an acetabular labral tear typically includes moderate to severe pain, primarily localised in the groin region. This pain is often worse at night and exacerbated by physical activity. Patients with labral tears may also report symptoms such as clicking, locking, or a sensation of the hip giving way during movement, indicating instability and dysfunction within the joint.

Early detection and appropriate management are essential to prevent further damage and preserve hip joint function in individuals with labral tears.

If you think you may be suffering from Acetabular Labrum Tear, we have a team who is ready to help you and get you on the road to recovery. Book an appointment with Precision Health today! Call us on (02) 9639 7337 or book online.

Nepple, J. J., Philippon, M. J., Campbell, K. J., & Clohisy, J. C. (2009). The hip fluid seal—Part I: The effect of an acetabular labral tear, repair, resection, and reconstruction on hip fluid pressurization. Journal of Hip Preservation Surgery, 16(6), 711-717. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2697339/

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