FLORIDA — BACKGROUND: The labrum is a unique structure found in the hip. It lines the edge or rim of the hip socket. The shape and function of the labrum is similar to a bumper cushion on a pool table. The shape of the labrum is triangular in cross-section. It acts as a cushion between the ball and socket of the hip joint during flexion of the hip and it holds the thighbone (femur) in place. The labrum is filled with nerve fibers that make tears in the labrum very painful. (SOURCE: www.dukehealth.org)
CAUSES: A hip labral tear involves the labrum. Labral tears typically occur from: repetitive motion; osteoarthritis, trauma, or it may be caused by a birth defect. (SOURCE: www.dukehealth.org)
SYMPTOMS: Some labral tears have no signs or symptoms. However, when symptoms are present, they include: radiating pain in the hip and groin, a catching or locking sensation in the hip joint, stiffness in the joint, or a limited range of motion. (SOURCE: www.dukehealth.org)
RISK FACTORS: People with pre-existing hip problems are at a higher risk of experiencing a hip labral tear and also people who participate in sports or other activities that require repeated twisting or pivoting motions. (SOURCE: www.mayoclinic.com)
TREATMENT: The level of treatment depends upon the severity of the condition. Some patients recover in only a few weeks using conservative treatments. However, patients with severe labral tearing may require surgery. One or a combination of these treatments may be used: rest and activity modification, medication, physical therapy, or surgery may be needed to repair or remove the torn portion of the labrum. (SOURCE: www.dukehealth.org, www.mayoclinic.com)
LATEST BREAKTHROUGHS: Hip arthroscopy is an excellent solution for relieving hip pain. The surgery repairs the damaged hip by separating the ball and socket in the hip joint. The procedure is an outpatient procedure that requires small leg incisions and promotes accelerated rehabilitation. For patients younger than 40, who have good cartilage and healthy joints, it is a great solution for treating hip pain in a minimally invasive manner. For patients over 40, who have the preservation of articular cartilage, arthroscopy can provide significant relief for the specific conditions. Recovery time for arthroscopic surgery is much less than the traditional procedure. People who have this surgery can return to their normal activities in four months to a year, unlike with the traditional surgery which could have patients out for a year and a half. (SOURCE: www.dukehealth.org)