Treating Torn Hip Labrum with Lumbar Derangement: WIR 11

Week in Review Podcast: Radiculopathy Without Back Pain, Thoracic Disc Injuries, and Complex Hip Labrum Tears

In this week’s episode of the Week in Review Podcast, the doctors at The FARM: Functional Athletic Rehabilitation and Movement dive into three fascinating cases that challenge traditional thinking about pain and injury. By taking a whole-body, movement-driven approach, our clinicians shed light on how symptoms don’t always line up neatly with the true source of dysfunction.

Case 1: Lower Extremity Radiculopathy Without Low Back Pain

The first case examines a patient experiencing radiating pain into the lower extremity without any low back pain. While radiculopathy is often linked to lumbar spine issues, this case demonstrates that nerve irritation can be present without obvious back symptoms. The discussion highlights the importance of nerve pathway testing, differential diagnosis, and movement assessment to uncover hidden contributors to pain.

Case 2: Thoracic Disc Injury From Golf Swing Mechanics

Next, the team looks at a thoracic disc case driven by faulty golf swing mechanics. Golf places heavy rotational load on the spine, and when technique or mobility is compromised, the thoracic region often takes the hit. The doctors explain how thoracic dysfunction can mimic shoulder or rib pain, delay diagnosis, and limit performance. With targeted rehab, spinal loading strategies, and improved swing mechanics, athletes can reduce injury risk and return to play stronger.

Case 3: Torn Hip Labrum With Lumbar Derangement

The final case explores the complexity of a torn hip labrum complicated by lumbar derangement. Labral injuries are already challenging to manage, but when paired with spine dysfunction, pain patterns and movement compensations become even harder to unravel. The team discusses strategies for teasing apart overlapping issues, restoring gait mechanics, and creating treatment plans that address both spine and hip simultaneously.

Why These Cases Matter for Chelsea, AL Patients

These cases highlight why patients in Chelsea, AL and the greater Birmingham area seek care at The FARM. Pain rarely exists in isolation, and effective treatment requires seeing the body as an interconnected system. Whether it’s nerve pain, disc injuries, or hip dysfunction, our clinicians are trained to identify the root cause, restore optimal movement, and help patients return to the activities they love.