What is it?
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition in where the bones of the hip joint are not shaped properly, causing them to rub against one another. Over time this friction can damage the labrum (shock absorber and the cartilage of the hip) causing pain, stiffness and limited movement. This can increase the risk of osteoarthritis in an individual. This condition is most common between the ages of 20-45 years.
Types of FAI: Pincer lesion, Cam lesion, combined or mixed lesion.
What causes this?
- Genetics may play a role
- Sporting activities participation during adolescence
- Perthes disease and slipped capital femoral epiphysis are also linked to FAI
Symptoms
- Pain usually in the groin or hip but sometimes in the buttock, lower back, thigh or knee
- Perthes disease and slipped capital femoral epiphysis are also linked to FAI
- Pain occurring during or after intense physical activity/sports
- Sitting with hips flexed at a 90-degree angle for prolonged periods of time
- Sensations of “popping,” “clicking,” or “catching”
Nonsurgical treatment
- Activity modification – reducing or avoiding activities that cause/aggravate the symptoms
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) – ibuprofen and naproxen reduce inflammation and can help alleviate symptoms
- Steroid injections – may help to lessen symptoms by reducing the inflammation
- Physical therapy – stretches and exercises can help symptoms, improve movement and strengthen the hip muscles
Surgical treatment
Surgical treatment may be recommended for those whose symptoms do not improve with nonsurgical therapies.
