Femoroacetabular Impingement

Patients with femoroacetabular impingement typically experience:

• Deep hip pain, especially in the groin area
• Pain that worsens with sitting, squatting, or pivoting movements
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the hip
• A catching or clicking sensation in the hip
• Pain that increases with prolonged sitting or driving
• Difficulty with activities like putting on shoes or socks
• Sharp pain when getting up from a seated position

Many patients describe a characteristic C-shaped pain pattern around the hip and groin area. Symptoms often worsen with activity and may persist even at rest in advanced cases.

FAI develops when the hip joint doesn’t form normally during childhood growth, creating abnormal bone shapes. There are three main types:

• Cam impingement: Extra bone growth on the femoral head creates a non-spherical shape
• Pincer impingement: Extra bone extends over the normal rim of the acetabulum
• Mixed impingement: A combination of both cam and pincer types

Risk factors include participating in sports that require repetitive hip flexion (soccer, hockey, martial arts), having certain hip socket shapes, and genetic predisposition. The condition is more commonly diagnosed in young, active adults between ages 20-40.

At Synergy Health Partners, our specialists use a comprehensive approach to diagnose FAI:

• Physical examination: Special tests to assess hip range of motion and reproduce symptoms
• X-rays: Reveal bone abnormalities and joint space narrowing
• MRI or MR arthrogram: Detailed imaging to evaluate cartilage and labral damage
• Impingement test: Specific positioning that reproduces pain if FAI is present

Our advanced imaging capabilities allow us to accurately assess the extent of impingement and develop a personalized treatment plan. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further joint damage and preserve hip function.

You should consult with a hip specialist if you experience:

• Persistent hip or groin pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• Difficulty with sports or exercise due to hip discomfort
• A catching or locking sensation in the hip
• Progressive stiffness or loss of hip mobility

Early intervention can prevent further cartilage damage and improve long-term outcomes. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen – prompt evaluation and treatment can help preserve your hip joint and maintain your active lifestyle.