Hip labral tear and FAI

Labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) are mechanical hip problems. People often feel groin pain with deep flexion, pivoting, or sitting, especially in more active adults.

What it feels like

Groin catch, pinch, or ache with squatting, cutting, or prolonged sitting is common.

Some people describe a clicking or locking sensation, though clicks alone are not a diagnosis.

Symptoms may flare with sport and settle with rest, then return when demand rises again.

What is going on

FAI involves cam or pincer morphology that can repeatedly stress the labrum and cartilage.

Labral tissue helps seal and stabilize the joint. Tears can occur with impingement, trauma, or hypermobility.

Not every labral finding on MRI explains pain. We correlate morphology, exam, and activity demands.

How we evaluate

Impingement testing, range profile, and sport history shape the first visit.

X-rays assess bony morphology. MRI or MR arthrogram is used when labral detail would change the plan.

Diagnostic injection into the joint can help confirm an intra-articular source when needed.

What we may offer

Activity redesign and hip-focused rehab are first-line for many FAI and labral patterns.

Image-guided joint injections may help selected inflammatory flares. Surgical referral is considered when mechanical symptoms persist despite good nonoperative care.

PRP is discussed selectively and honestly when regenerative options are relevant to the joint or surrounding tissues.

Does an MRI labral tear always need surgery?

No. Many labral findings are managed with rehab first, especially when symptoms are mild or intermittent.

What is FAI in plain language?

It means the ball and socket are shaped in a way that they pinch earlier than usual in deep flexion or rotation.

Can I keep playing sports?

Often with modifications while we calm symptoms and build capacity. We individualize that call.

How is this different from hip osteoarthritis?

FAI and labral tears are more mechanical and often appear earlier. OA is broader cartilage wear, usually with more radiographic joint-space loss.