The hip joint is like any other large joint in the body, the bony surfaces are covered in a layer of articular cartilage which allows the smooth running of the joint. Additionally, there is a ring of cartilage around the opening of the socket of the hip joint called the labrum. The labrum is more commonly affected, but both types of cartilage can be damaged and develop tears, which can lead to pain and clicking.

Symptoms can range from some discomfort and clicking to severe pain or even the feeling of “giving way”, which can impact on your activities and sports. It is always worth having any unexplained hip pain reviewed as labral and cartilage tears can often be easily treated with arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery, significantly improving your symptoms.