What to expect from hip arthroscopy for hip labral tear

A camera lets the surgeon inspect the hip joint. Depending on the tear and the surrounding tissue, the labrum may be repaired or trimmed, and related impingement or cartilage findings may also be addressed. Repair usually brings more specific early restrictions than trimming. Pain, stiffness and altered walking can occur at first. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring safe hip motion, activating supporting muscles and rebuilding strength without placing excessive load on healing tissue.

Follow weight-bearing and movement limits carefully, especially restrictions on bending, rotation or active lifting of the leg. Keep the wound clean as instructed and use prescribed support. Physiotherapy exercises should be controlled and increased only when your team confirms that the hip is ready. Plan help for shopping, stairs and transport, then gradually resume work or sport according to strength, movement quality and symptoms.

Call the surgical team about worsening pain, increasing redness or drainage, fever, new numbness, marked calf swelling or difficulty following the weight-bearing plan. Emergency symptoms include chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or a leg that becomes cold or pale. Sudden loss of hip movement after a new incident should be assessed promptly.

Ask whether the labrum will be repaired or trimmed, what weight-bearing is allowed, which positions are restricted, and how progress will be checked during rehabilitation.