by Bryan Guild, SPT
Labral hip tear
Physical Therapy for Hip Labrum Repair
The hip labrum is a ring of fibrocartilage surrounding the hip socket of the pelvis (acetabulum). Its purpose is to deepen the socket and provide increased stability of the joint.
Overuse and/or trauma may cause a tear in the labrum and can lead to:
- Feelings of instability
- Pain, constant or intermittent, in the hip and groin area
- Painful clicking/catching or locking in the hip during movement
- Loss of function, motion and strength
Patients who participate in vigorous activity and sport like football, hockey or soccer are at an increased risk for this injury. More severe tears with persisting symptoms may require surgical intervention, however conservative treatment should always be considered first. A hip arthroscopy surgery is used to repair or debride torn tissue. Other interventions, like correcting impingements may also be required during this surgery.
Hip Labrum Surgery Post Operative Physical Therapy
After the surgery, Physical Therapy is vital to promote recovery of tissue, improve function, and prevent complications after surgery. Depending on the type of surgery, patients can expect to be using crutches for about the first 4 weeks after surgery. A Physical Therapist will work with the patient from just a few days after surgery to 4-6 months post, progressing treatment as tolerated. Patients can expect significant improvements in function and pain over the course of rehabilitation.
For more information on how to reduce or manage chronic pain with physical therapy, contact us at 518-289-5242 to make an appointment at one of our physical therapy clinics in Queensbury, Malta, or Saratoga NY. Our PT clinics serve Ballston Spa, Clifton Park, Malta, Saratoga Springs and the Glens Falls – Lake George region.
Harris JD. Hip labral repair: options and outcomes. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2016;9(4):361-367. doi:10.1007/s12178-016-9360-9
