The labrum is a cartilage ring that runs along the rim of the hip socket. There is a full spectrum of labral damage (e.g., bruising, partial tearing, full tearing with detachment) but the amount of damage coincides with how severe the symptoms are. Damage to the labrum is typically caused by an underlying impingement disorder called FAI.

Pain from labrum damage is usually present in the groin but can be present on the side or back of the hip and is associated as sharp, stabbing pain as well as an achy pain, which is due to inflammation. Pain will initially start to limit recreational activities but can become severe enough that it interferes with normal daily activities.

Activity-driven pain may be resolved by taking a rest from the activities that are triggering the pain. Anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen, can also provide pain relief.

However, if the pain is not improved by activity modification, a hip evaluated by an orthopedic specialist that focuses on hip arthroscopy is recommended.

One of the best surgical treatments for a labral tear is a hip arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive surgery that allows patients to go home the same day. Hip arthroscopy features a high rate of return-to-sport with approximately 90 percent of patients returning to their original level or higher.