Hip Arthroscopy: What It Is, Who It Helps, and What to Expect

When your hip hurts even when you’re not moving, and everyday activities like putting on shoes or getting out of a car become painful, hip arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the hip joint. Also known as keyhole hip surgery, it’s often the next step after physical therapy and pain meds fail to help. Unlike open surgery, this method uses tiny incisions and a small camera to see inside the joint — meaning less tissue damage, shorter recovery, and less scarring.

It’s not for everyone. labral tears, rips in the ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket. Also known as hip labrum injury, it’s one of the most common reasons people get this surgery. If you’ve been told you have femoroacetabular impingement — where bone growths rub against the joint — that’s another big reason. Athletes, dancers, and active adults under 50 often benefit most. But if you have advanced arthritis, this won’t fix it. That’s when a full hip replacement becomes the better choice.

It’s also used for loose bodies, small fragments of bone or cartilage floating inside the joint. Also known as joint mice, they can lock up the hip or cause sudden sharp pain. Surgeons can remove them during the same procedure. Other issues like early-stage cartilage damage or inflamed tissue can be cleaned up too. The goal isn’t to reverse damage, but to stop it from getting worse and restore movement.

Recovery takes weeks, not months. Most people walk with crutches for a week or two, then start physical therapy. You’re back to light activity in 6 to 8 weeks, and full sports in 3 to 6 months — if you stick to rehab. Skipping PT is the #1 reason people don’t get good results.

The posts below cover what happens before, during, and after hip arthroscopy — from how to prepare for surgery to managing pain, avoiding complications, and knowing when it’s time to call your doctor. You’ll also find comparisons with other treatments, real recovery timelines, and what to expect if you’re considering this procedure. No fluff. Just what you need to know to make smart choices.