Diagnosis of acetabular-labral tear

A person with an acetabular-labral tear typically presents with pain felt in the groin, exacerbated by a prolonged period of standing, sitting or walking. The pain is typically sharp and associated with mechanical symptoms such as clicking and giving way. Clinical examination may reveal reduced range of motion in hip flexion, internal rotation or adduction.

Research suggests that specific physical tests are not helpful to confirm a diagnosis, except the FADDIR testTroelsen, 2009 (flexion, adduction and internal rotation), also known as the impingement test; see this instructional video.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is the investigation of choice for detection of acetabular-labral tears; however, any findings should be carefully correlated with clinical features, as these tears are common in asymptomatic people.