Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in the Symptomatic Hips of Younger Retired National Football League Players
Authors
Domb BG, Jackson TJ, Carter CC, Jester JR, Finch NA, Stake CE
DOI: 10.1177/0363546514531551
Purpose
To assess the prevalence of pathologic intra-articular hip lesions in younger, retired NFL players evaluated for persistent hip pain.
Methods
Retrospective chart review of 62 hips in 38 retired NFL players who underwent hip MRI or MRI arthrogram. Images were reviewed for labral tears, chondral lesions, ligamentum teres tears, bone cysts, osteophytes, and other findings. Player position and seasons played were also recorded.
Key Findings
- 89% of hips had labral tears, 98% had chondral lesions, and 81% had partial or complete ligamentum teres tears.
- Other findings included osteophytes (5%), subchondral bone cysts (14.5%), and paralabral cysts (5%).
- The majority had bilateral hip pain.
- Average alpha angle was 59°, indicating frequent cam deformities.
Conclusion
Younger retired NFL players have a high incidence of intra-articular hip pathology, especially chondral lesions and labral tears. Bilateral symptoms are common.
What This Means for Patients
Former NFL players experiencing hip pain should be evaluated for underlying joint damage that may explain symptoms, guiding more targeted treatment.