One of my clients suffers from a torn hip labrum. I am trying to strengthen her gluteus medius and maximus. Thoughts?

She really should be evaluated by a Physical Therapist. There are several different degrees and types of labrial tears. Once she gets an appointment I would suggest going to one of her PT sessions to see what exercises she is doing, and to discuss a program you can continue with her. (As a side benefit I have developed a good professional relationship with several PTs who I have met through my clients).

I agree with Janet. She will need to be evaluated by her physician or PT because this type of tear might require rest, medical treatment (surgery or injections) and/or PT treatment before engage in any type of activity. Also working with her PT could be beneficial to both you and your client.

I have had a torn labrum and had surgery on it. The surgery is pretty easy and worth it. I have found that strengthening everything in that region is beneficial if she is favoring it! I still have strength issues on that side. Anyways, I also found that keeping the psoas muscles loose was extremely beneficial especially up where it connects into the abdomen. I use a tennis ball and lay on it.
I found that my tear was caused by extreme hip flexion to the point where the ball of my femur was hitting the labrum and slowly causing a tear. If that is the case with your client, avoid exercises in flexion (riding aero on a bike).

Hello Michelle! While the gluteus medius is the key muscle to strengthen, don’t forget your client. Pay special attention to the ITB; (personally, I would stretching it before and after thes session). I would also do some balance activities

Best of luck

Exercise won’t heal a torn labrum. You can strengthen the surrounding musculature to assist the connective tissue in stabilizing the joint. Before doing any exercise or working with a client with such issues, clearance to exercise is absolutely necessary.

Once cleared to exercise, the entire kinetic chain should be assessed for a number of potential issues from imbalances to ROM limitations or joint laxity. Everything depends on the client’s overall readiness to not only exercise, but move correctly at every joint. There are so many subtle things to be aware of and be able to observe and understand the integrated relationship to the client’s mechanics, I would need to assess the client to give more advice than this.