Hip Labral Tears: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Concerns

Hip Labral Tear

Symptoms: Right hip labral tear, swelling in the right calf, and left-sided back pain.
Since I was 15 years old, during my first year of high school, I noticed pain near my right hip joint after running too intensely.
Initially, I didn't think much of it and continued to exercise.
Two weeks later, after getting bumped while playing basketball, the pain worsened.
I began seeking medical attention and visited several hospitals, but no one could identify the issue.
I also tried various forms of massage and chiropractic treatment, but they were ineffective and the pain only increased.
Now, at 17 years old and in my senior year, I was finally diagnosed with a right hip labral tear at Taipei Veterans General Hospital.
However, the doctor did not provide specific management strategies, only advising me to avoid painful movements.
When I asked if my long-term left-sided back pain was related, he said it was not.
Additionally, for the past two years since my injury, I have experienced persistent swelling in my right calf, and certain movements cause significant pain.

Doctor, could you please tell me if the persistent swelling in my calf (to the point where I can't wear fitted pants) is related to the labral tear? How should I manage this? Is my left-sided back pain also related to the labral tear (which is on the right side)? Am I at an appropriate age for surgery? What are the risks associated with this surgery? If I continue to engage in intense physical activity without treatment, will my condition worsen? (Previous doctors said I could still exercise, but I experience pain afterward.) Furthermore, I have an entrance exam for the police academy in May, and a physical examination in July; will this injury affect my ability to pass? If not, would it be feasible to have surgery and recover in time for the exam in July, which includes a physical fitness test?

David, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/25

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

A labral tear does not cause calf pain or back pain, and it is not suitable for surgery.
It is necessary to consult a surgical specialist and consider visiting another medical center that specializes in sports injuries or hip joint issues to evaluate the possibility of recovery, which is difficult to determine.

Reply Date: 2017/02/25

More Info

Understanding hip labral tears is crucial for managing symptoms and determining appropriate treatment options. A hip labral tear occurs when the cartilage surrounding the hip joint, known as the labrum, is damaged. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and a sensation of instability in the hip joint. In your case, you have reported right-sided labral tears, swelling in the right calf, and persistent pain in the left side of your back.

Symptoms and Their Implications
1. Hip Pain: The pain you experienced after intense physical activity, such as running and playing basketball, is a common symptom of a labral tear. This pain can be exacerbated by certain movements, particularly those that involve hip rotation or flexion.

2. Calf Swelling: The persistent swelling in your right calf could be related to several factors. It may be a result of compensatory movements due to your hip pain, leading to increased strain on the calf muscles. Additionally, if there is any underlying vascular issue or inflammation, it could contribute to the swelling. It is essential to have this evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other vascular concerns.

3. Left Side Back Pain: While the left-sided back pain may not seem directly related to the right hip labral tear, it could be a result of altered biomechanics. When one side of the body is injured, individuals often compensate by changing their posture or movement patterns, which can lead to pain in other areas, including the back.

Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: Initially, conservative treatment options such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification are recommended. Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve flexibility, which may alleviate some of your symptoms.

2. Surgical Intervention: If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical options may be considered. Surgery for a labral tear typically involves repairing the torn labrum and addressing any associated issues, such as bone spurs or hip impingement.
3. Age Considerations: At 17 years old, you are generally considered a good candidate for surgery, especially if your symptoms significantly impact your quality of life or athletic performance. However, the decision to proceed with surgery should be made in consultation with an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip injuries.

Risks of Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, blood clots, and complications related to anesthesia. Additionally, there is a possibility that the surgery may not fully alleviate your symptoms, or that you may experience stiffness or limited range of motion post-operatively.

Impact on Athletic Performance
Continuing to engage in high-impact activities without addressing your hip injury could lead to further damage and prolonged recovery. It is advisable to avoid activities that exacerbate your pain until you have a clear treatment plan in place.

Preparing for Physical Exams
Regarding your upcoming physical exams for the police academy, it is essential to discuss your condition with the medical evaluators. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and the findings from your medical evaluations, your ability to pass the physical tests may be affected. If surgery is indicated, the recovery time can vary, but typically, it may take several months to regain full function.

In conclusion, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from an orthopedic specialist who can provide tailored advice based on your specific condition. They can help you navigate your treatment options, whether conservative or surgical, and guide you on how to manage your symptoms effectively while preparing for your upcoming physical exams.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Hip Labral Tears: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Recovery

Symptoms and Medical Consultation Process: Last July, I underwent a lateral hip abduction procedure and felt some discomfort. The next day, I woke up with tightness and soreness around my left hip, along with a squeezing sensation when lifting my leg. Over the following week,...

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics
Hello, you can ask your surgeon about your concerns. There is still a possibility of rupture worsening.

Understanding Femoroacetabular Impingement and Labral Tears: Symptoms and Treatment

Doctor, I was recently diagnosed with femoroacetabular impingement and a labral tear of the hip. Initially, I only experienced pain in my left groin, but over time, it has gradually developed into stiffness and pain in my left buttock and the back of my left thigh, especially whe...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. It is possible. 2. Consult an orthopedic surgeon for advice; surgery may be necessary.

Understanding Hip Labral Tears: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello, Doctor. Last year, I fell from a height of 3 meters while lifting heavy objects. Since then, I have experienced swelling on the outer side of my left hip joint, and there is a clicking sound on the inner side that is painful. I have been receiving treatment in a rehabilita...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Further evaluation with ultrasound or MRI can be considered. It's advisable to have a physician assess the situation before making any plans regarding potential regrowth, as some conditions may not allow for regrowth and may require surgery.

Post-Surgery Concerns: Hip Labral Tear Recovery and Rehabilitation

Hello doctor, is it normal to still feel significant pain in the hip six weeks after surgery for a labral tear of the hip joint? If so, how long does rehabilitation typically take to achieve normal recovery? Generally, how long does it take to walk normally after hip labral repai...

Dr. Cai Shanglin reply Orthopedics
Hello, Xiao Chen. The surgery for repairing a torn hip labrum is a relatively advanced procedure. I have not performed this type of surgery on patients, so I lack experience in patient care for this specific procedure. If it is an arthroscopic repair, the incision is smaller, and...