Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), is a condition that occurs when there is abnormal contact between the hip joint's ball and socket. This can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the hip.
There are three types of FAI:
Cam impingement - This occurs when there is excess bone growth on the femoral head (ball), which then rubs against the acetabulum (socket).
Pincer impingement - This occurs when there is excess bone growth on the acetabulum (socket), which then rubs against the femoral head (ball).
Combined impingement - This occurs when there is excess bone growth on both the femoral head (ball) and acetabulum (socket).
To diagnose FAI, your doctor will perform a physical exam, take your medical history, and may order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.
Treatment for FAI typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and medication for pain relief. In worst cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the excess bone growth and restore normal joint mechanics.
There are several conditions that can be similar to FAI. It's important to get an accurate diagnosis from a healthcare professional such as your physical therapist, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Hip labral tear - This is a tear in the ring of cartilage (labrum) that surrounds the hip socket. It can cause similar symptoms to FAI, such as hip pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Hip bursitis - This is inflammation of the bursae (small, fluid-filled sacs) that cushion the hip joint. It can cause pain and tenderness around the hip joint, similar to FAI.
Osteoarthritis of the hip - This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the hip joint. It can be mistaken for FAI, especially in older patients.
Snapping hip syndrome - This is a condition in which the tendons or muscles around the hip joint snap or pop during movement. It can cause pain and discomfort, but it is not typically associated with structural abnormalities like FAI.
Piriformis syndrome - This is a condition in which the piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, compresses the sciatic nerve. It can cause pain in the hip, buttock, and leg, and can be mistaken for FAI.
It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis if you are experiencing hip pain or discomfort. They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.