Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain, stiffness and limited range of motion. It occurs when there is abnormal contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum of the hip joint resulting in damage to the surrounding cartilage and bone. FAI is classified into three stages which are based on the severity of the condition and the extent of damage to the hip joint. In this blog, we will discuss each stage of FAI in detail and provide some insights on how physiotherapists and chiropractors can help in managing this condition.
Stage 1: In this stage the symptoms of FAI are usually mild and may not be noticeable. The hip joint is still relatively normal in shape but there may be some slight changes in the shape of the femoral head or the acetabulum. As a result, the femoral head may not fit as well into the acetabulum and this can cause minor damage to the cartilage. Patients may experience some occasional pain or discomfort in the hip joint but it usually resolves on its own or with some basic treatments such as rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medication.
Stage 2: In this stage, the damage to the hip joint is more severe and the symptoms of FAI are more noticeable. The femoral head and the acetabulum become more deformed leading to increased friction and wear and tear on the hip joint. The pain and stiffness in the hip joint become more frequent and severe and patients may have difficulty performing activities that involve bending, twisting or turning. Physiotherapists and chiropractors can help in managing the symptoms of stage 2 FAI by providing exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles, improve joint flexibility and reduce pain and inflammation.
Stage 3: In this stage the damage to the hip joint is severe and irreversible. The femoral head and the acetabulum are significantly deformed leading to advanced arthritis and joint degeneration. Patients with stage 3 FAI may experience constant pain and stiffness in the hip joint, difficulty walking, and limited range of motion. Treatment options may include surgical interventions such as hip arthroscopy, hip resurfacing, or total hip replacement. Physiotherapists and chiropractors can also play a role in helping patients recover from surgery by providing rehabilitation exercises, pain management techniques, and functional training.
Femoroacetabular impingement is a progressive condition that can cause significant pain and disability if left untreated. Understanding the different stages of FAI can help patients and healthcare professionals identify the severity of the condition and provide appropriate treatments. If you are experiencing hip pain or stiffness, it is crucial to seek medical attention from a qualified physiotherapist or chiropractor and get a proper diagnosis to determine the stage of FAI and the best treatment approach. With the right management and care, patients with FAI can improve their hip function, reduce pain and inflammation, and regain their quality of life.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
