A labral tear in the hip involves a tear in the connective tissue, or cartilage, that surrounds the hip joint. Although this type of injury often occurs in athletes involved in high-impact sports that require hip mobility and twisting movements, individuals who do not play sports may also suffer from a labral tear. Minor tears may heal with physical therapy and sufficient rest, however, most labral tears require surgery followed by physical therapy. Consult your physician before beginning a physical therapy program.
Hip Flexion
Although most physical therapy programs are unique to the patient, most rehabilitation is designed to improve hip flexion, balance and range of motion. Physical therapy generally starts with simple stretches and hip exercises, such as a hip flexion. Lie flat on your back and bend the knee of your injured leg toward your chest. Gently pull your knee up to your chest as far as you can without causing pain, then lower your leg back down. Perform 10 to 20 repetitions.
Hip Rotation
Your physical therapist will likely measure the external rotation of your hip and range of motion with hip rotation exercises. To perform an external hip rotation, lie on your back with the knee of your injured leg bent, keeping your foot flat on the floor. Your other leg remains extended. Drop your knee down and away from your body as far as possible without causing pain, then slowly bring it back up. Perform 10 to 20 repetitions.
Strength Exercises
As flexion and range of motion improve in your injured hip, your physical therapist may prescribe exercises designed to improve the strength of your glutes, hamstrings, iliopsoas, quadriceps and hip flexors. Begin with basic exercises and add resistance tools, such as tubing, as your strength improves. These exercises may feel uncomfortable at first, but should not cause pain. Stop the exercise immediately and consult your physical therapist if pain occurs.
Cycling
Although most cardiovascular exercise should be avoided due to impact on the hip joints, cycling is a low impact exercise that helps restore mobility and flexion to the hip joint. Use an upright stationary bicycle and start by pedaling on low resistance for 10 minutes. With your physical therapist's assistance, increase the duration and resistance as your strength improves. Avoid recumbent bikes, which may cause excessive flexion and use of weak hip flexor muscles.
