Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a common condition that affects the hip joint. FAI occurs when there is abnormal contact between the ball of the femur and the socket of the hip joint. This contact can cause pain and discomfort in the hip, groin or thigh. FAI can be caused by a variety of factors such as bone abnormalities, developmental problems or repetitive activities. In this blog, we will discuss in detail what causes femoroacetabular impingement and how it can be treated.
Bone Abnormalities: The most common cause of femoroacetabular impingement is bone abnormalities. This includes a condition called cam impingement, which is when there is excess bone on the femoral head causing it to rub against the acetabulum during movement. Another type of impingement is called pincer impingement, which occurs when there is excess bone on the acetabulum causing the femoral head to pinch. Both of these conditions can cause pain and discomfort and can lead to damage of the hip joint over time.
Developmental Problems: Some people are born with hip abnormalities that can lead to femoroacetabular impingement. For example, a condition called hip dysplasia can cause the hip socket to be too shallow leading to instability and increased wear and tear on the joint. Another developmental problem is called Legg-Calves-Perthes disease, which affects the blood supply to the femoral head leading to deformity and impingement. These conditions can be diagnosed early on and treated to prevent further damage.
Repetitive Activities: Certain activities that involve repetitive hip motion can cause femoroacetabular impingement over time. For example, sports such as soccer, hockey, and basketball that require quick pivoting and changes of direction can increase the risk of impingement. Activities such as jogging, cycling, and weight lifting can also lead to hip impingement if done repetitively over time. It is important to modify these activities if you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the hip joint, this will end up helping your FAI.
Hip Injuries: Hip injuries can also lead to femoroacetabular impingement. For example, a fracture or dislocation of the hip joint can lead to abnormal bony growth and impingement. Hip labral tears can also cause femoroacetabular impingement depending on the stage if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention for any hip injuries to prevent further damage and improve recovery time.
Genetics: Finally, genetics can also play a role in the development of femoroacetabular impingement. Studies have shown that certain genes may affect bone and cartilage development, which could lead to impingement. If you have a family history of hip problems, it is important to be aware of your risk and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms.
In conclusion, femoroacetabular impingement is a common condition that affects the hip joint. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as bone abnormalities, developmental problems, repetitive activities, hip injuries, and genetics. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the hip joint, it is important to seek medical attention. Treatment options for femoroacetabular impingement include physiotherapy, chiropractic care, medication, and surgery. By understanding the causes of impingement, we can take steps to prevent it and improve our overall hip health.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
