Understanding the Ligamentum Teres: Function, Injuries, and Treatment Options

3 min read

What Is the Ligamentum Teres?

The ligamentum teres is a small, rope-like structure inside the hip joint that connects the femoral head to the acetabulum (hip socket). While once thought to be vestigial, new research shows that the ligamentum teres plays a critical role in hip stability, joint proprioception, and early blood supply to the femoral head.

Injuries to this ligament—although less common—can cause hip pain, instability, and reduced range of motion, especially in active individuals or those with underlying hip conditions like hip dysplasia or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

Anatomical illustration of the hip joint highlighting the ligamentum teres connecting the femoral head to the acetabulum, shown within the ball-and-socket structure.

Ligamentum Teres Function in the Hip Joint

The ligamentum teres provides several key functions:

Hip Joint Stability – Helps limit excessive rotational and lateral movement, especially in flexion.
Proprioception – Contains nerve endings that give the brain feedback on hip joint position and motion.
Blood Supply (in early development) – Carries blood to the femoral head in infancy; less important in adults.

Types of Ligamentum Teres Injuries

Although injuries to the ligamentum teres are relatively rare, they can significantly impact joint function.

1. Ligamentum Teres Tear

Causes: Trauma, hip dislocation, or repetitive rotational stress (e.g., gymnastics, soccer).
Often associated with: FAI or hip dysplasia
Symptoms: Deep hip pain, catching, or clicking sensations.

2. Ligamentum Teres Hypertrophy

Thickening of the ligament due to chronic inflammation or irritation.
Often seen in overuse injuries or structural hip abnormalities.

3. Ligamentum Teres Rupture

A complete rupture is rare but may lead to significant instability within the hip joint.

➡️ Related: What is FAI hip?

Symptoms of Ligamentum Teres Injury

Individuals with a ligamentum teres injury may report:

✅ Deep, sharp pain in the groin or hip

✅ Clicking or catching sensations with movement

✅ A feeling of instability or “giving way”

✅ Reduced range of motion, particularly during rotation

How Are Ligamentum Teres Injuries Diagnosed?

Because these injuries are difficult to detect on standard imaging, diagnosis typically involves:

MRI or MRA (Magnetic Resonance Arthrogram) – Best for detecting ligament tears or hypertrophy.
Hip Arthroscopy – Allows direct visualization and is both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Physical Exam – Includes stability tests and assessments of rotational hip pain.

Treatment Options for Ligamentum Teres Tears or Ruptures

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

Physical Therapy – Focuses on strengthening hip stabilizers and improving joint control.
NSAIDs – Help reduce pain and inflammation.
Activity Modification – Avoid sports or motions that aggravate symptoms.

➡️ Check out hip stability exercises

2. PRP Injections for Ligament Healing

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy may accelerate healing and reduce inflammation in ligament injuries.

➡️ Learn more about PRP injections for hip pain

3. Hip Arthroscopy for Ligamentum Teres Repair

Debridement – Trimming or removing frayed tissue.
Ligament Reconstruction – In rare cases, a graft may be used to replace the damaged ligament.

➡️ Read about hip arthroscopy procedures

Preventing Ligamentum Teres Injury

To reduce the risk of ligamentum teres injury:

Strengthen Hip Muscles – Especially abductors and rotators for dynamic stability.
Avoid Excessive Hip Rotation – Particularly important for dancers, gymnasts, and martial artists.
Address Underlying Conditions – Correcting FAI or dysplasia early can reduce injury risk.

Key Takeaways

The ligamentum teres is crucial for hip joint stability and proprioception, especially during complex or rotational movements.
Injuries include tears, hypertrophy, and rupture, which can lead to pain, instability, and restricted motion.
Diagnosis involves MRI or hip arthroscopy, as standard X-rays may not show soft tissue damage.
Treatment ranges from physical therapy and PRP to arthroscopic surgery in severe cases.
Prevention focuses on hip strengthening, flexibility, and early correction of structural abnormalities.

FAQs About the Ligamentum Teres

Q: Can you tear the ligamentum teres without trauma? A: Yes. Repetitive hip rotation or instability—often due to FAI or dysplasia—can cause partial tears over time.

Q: How do you know if you have a ligamentum teres injury? A: Persistent groin pain, catching or instability, and limited motion may suggest it. MRI or hip arthroscopy confirms the diagnosis.

Q: Can the ligamentum teres heal on its own? A: Mild tears may improve with conservative care. Severe tears or ruptures may require arthroscopic treatment.