Femoralacetabular Impingement (FAI)
What is it?
FemoroacetabularImpingement (FAI), is a condition that develops in the socket of the hipcausing pain during certain movements. The hip is a ball and socket joint, andwhen the joint surfaces become irregular then it can result in FAI or otherpainful hip injuries.
What are the symptoms?
Sharp pain willtypically occur during certain end of range movements of the hip. Most notablyduring flexion, internal rotation and adduction. Pain can occur following heavybouts of exercise and the hip may ache or be very irritated. Other than pain,you may experience feelings of stiffness, decreased power and poor control ofthe hip and leg.
Who is likely to have it?
FAI most commonlyaffects athletic young men, and those who participate in frequent explosivesports such as football and basketball. The condition can occur in anyone, butgenerally radiographic changes can be seen in young men from as young as 13years old.
What causes it?
Repetitive andsheering forces over time slowly cause irritation and damage to the hip joint.The hip joint should move smoothly within the socket, but when it doesn’t itcausing inflammation and pain. As the impingement progresses, osteophyteformation (bone growth) will worsen the injury. Eventually, leading to anincongruent joint where the hip cannot move smoothly. Other causes includegenetics, which can increase the likelihood of this disease.
Can it be treated?
Absolutely it can! Insevere cases there is the option of a minimally invasive surgery called hiparthroscopy, which has favourable outcomes for up to 10 years for less severecases that don’t already have chondral damage. However, most cases of FAI canbe managed conservatively. Physiotherapy assessment will be the best way toidentify major causative factors. This may include range of motiondeficiencies, increased tightness in muscles and impaired control of lowerlimb. Physiotherapy will therefore aim to address these impairments throughmanual therapy (massage, and mobilisation) as well as targeted exerciseprogramming/modification.
If you have any further questions about FAI, please contact us or book online for an appointment
