A hip labral tear involves the ring of cartilage, called the labrum that lies on the outside rim of the socket of the hip joint. The labrum acts like a rubber seal or gasket to help hold the ball at the top of your thighbone securely within the hip socket. Athletes who participate in such sports as ice hockey, soccer, football, golfing and ballet are at higher risk of developing a hip labral tear. Structural abnormalities of the hip also can lead to a hip labral tear.

Symptoms

• A locking, clicking or catching sensation in the hip joint

• Pain in the hip or groin

• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the hip joint