Labral Tear (Labral Detachment)

A labral tear, also known as labral detachment, is an injury involving the fibrocartilaginous rim (labrum) that surrounds the hip socket (acetabulum) or the shoulder socket (glenoid). The labrum plays a crucial role in stabilizing the joint by deepening the socket and increasing the contact surface between the joint surfaces. Labral tears commonly result from repetitive mechanical stress, acute traumatic dislocations, anatomical abnormalities such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), or age-related degenerative changes. Patients typically experience joint pain, a sensation of catching, locking, or instability, as well as a reduced range of motion, particularly during movements that place stress on the affected joint. Diagnosis is based on a detailed clinical examination and imaging studies, most commonly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with or without intra-articular contrast (MR arthrography), to accurately assess the extent of the injury. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear, the patient's symptoms, and functional demands. Conservative management—including physical therapy, activity modification, and pain control—may be effective in selected cases, while persistent or significant tears often require arthroscopic surgery to repair or selectively remove the damaged portion of the labrum, with the goal of restoring joint stability and function.