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[Conditions](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/) · [Lower limb](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/region/lower-limb/)

# Acetabular Labral Tear

An acetabular labral tear is a tear of the cartilage rim around the hip socket, often from injury or impingement; it causes groin pain and catching.

Updated 2026-10-23

## Structures involved

Tap one to see what it is and open it in 3D.

- [Acetabular labrum](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/acetabular-labrum/)
- [Femur](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/femur/)
- [Hip bone](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/hip-bone/)

## Why it happens

- [Cartilage: hyaline, elastic, fibrocartilage](https://durgical.com/en/histology/cartilage-hyaline-elastic-fibrocartilage/)

## What it is

Tear of the cartilage rim that deepens the hip socket, often from trauma or femoroacetabular impingement.

## Symptoms and signs

- Groin pain with activity
- Clicking or catching
- Pain with flexion and internal rotation

## Diagnosis

**Clinical**
Special tests and exam

**Imaging**
MRI arthrogram is often needed

## Treatment

**Rehabilitation**
Physical therapy and activity modification.

**Surgical**
Arthroscopic repair or debridement in selected cases.

## Related conditions

- [Avascular necrosis of the femoral head](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/avascular-necrosis-of-the-femoral-head/)

Educational information, not medical advice. For any symptom, see a health professional.

Sources: Acetabular Labral Tears (StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf), 2024).

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Representative model, for educational purposes only.

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Source: https://durgical.com/en/conditions/acetabular-labral-tear/
License: CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Cite as: DurgiPedia (durgical.com), https://durgical.com/en/conditions/acetabular-labral-tear/