Loose Bodies

What are loose bodies?

Loose bodies are small pieces of bone or cartilage (joint surface) that can break off in the hip joint after injury.

What symptoms do loose bodies cause?

A loose body in the joint is analogous to a pebble caught in your shoe. This can cause pain and irritation in the hip.  When a loose body becomes lodged or stuck in the hip during normal joint motion, it creates a painful sensation, click, or clunk.

How are loose bodies diagnosed?

A sports medicine physician can often diagnose a loose body based on your symptoms and examination. However, the diagnosis of loose body is usually verified by x-ray and MRI to determine to size and location of the loose fragment.

How are loose bodies treated?

If a loose body is causing significant symptoms, it can be removed through small incisions during hip arthroscopy.