11/25/2025
Hip pain often starts in two key structures: the labrum and articular cartilage.
· Labrum: Acts like a gasket around the hip socket, evenly distributing weight and enhancing stability. Richly innervated, tears can be very painful.
· Articular cartilage: Lines the ball-and-socket surfaces like a smooth coating, reducing friction. Early wear may not hurt, but progressive damage leads to arthritis.
Understanding these structures helps explain why hip pain develops and how arthritis progresses.
Hip labral tear can lead to articular cartilage damage, and begin the early stages of hip arthritis. Symptoms can include restricted motion in the hip.