Expert Treatment For A Hip Labral Tear in Philadelphia

How Does the Hip Work?

The hip joint is a ball and socket, made up of the femoral head (the ball) and the acetabulum (the socket). Cartilage covers the head and lines the socket, allowing it to it to move easily as you walk, run, and play. An important part of this system is the labrum, a fibrocartilage pad located between the femoral head and the acetabulum. It serves to stabilize the hip and also acts as a shock absorber.

What is a Hip Labral Tear?

A hip labral tear is a common injury among athletes. They can occur in a number of ways, and are typically accompanied by pain in the hip and groin. If you or someone you love has experienced such an injury, it is important to seek the help of an orthopaedic sports medicine expert.

How do Hip Labral Tears Happen?

Most hip labral tears do not occur as a result of an acute injury.Most are secondary to a problem with the shape of the hip joint, most commonly FAI ( "impingement") or less commonly hip dysplasia.This is critical when deciding on the appropriate treatment.Not all patients with pain and hip labral tear benefit from surgical intervention.

How is a Hip Labral Tear Treated?

Depending upon the severity of the hip labral tear, it may be treated in a number of ways. Initially, it may be approached with non-operative treatments, including physical therapy, activity modification and medication. In some cases, these are sufficient and allow the patient to return to his or her normal activities after a period of rest and rehabilitation. In other cases, however, the labrum may need to be repaired through arthroscopic surgery. Hip arthroscopy is a unique surgical procedure which uses fiber-optic cameras and small instruments to repair the torn fibrocartilage. The course of treatment for a given patient will depend upon a variety of factors, including severity of the injury as well as the patient’s current and past health. Not all patients with hip pain & hip labral tears are candidates for hip arthroscopy.

Where Can I Seek Treatment For a Hip Labral Tear in Philadelphia?

If you or someone you know has experienced a hip labral tear in Philadelphia, the best treatment is available right around the corner at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. As one of the nation’s leaders in hip arthroscopy and hip preservation, our hip specialists are at the forefront of the latest research and development, ensuring that each of our patients receives the best possible care. And whether your labral tear requires a surgical approach or non-surgical treatment, you can be confident that your doctors and therapists are the best in the country.

For more information or to make an appointment, contact Rothman Orthopaedic Institute today.