As a result of extra bone growth, one or both of the hip bones form an irregular shape due to femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). The bones rub against each other during movement because they do not fit together perfectly. This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of FAI.
Causes
Femoroacetabular impingement is primarily caused by:
-
Femur and acetabulum abnormalities: Extra bone growth on the femur or acetabulum can cause them to rub against each other. This abnormality can be congenital or develop over time.
-
Performing repetitive hip movements can lead to FAI. Athletes are particularly susceptible to FAI.
-
A family history of hip abnormalities or FAI can increase the risk of developing the disease.
-
Trauma to the hip joint can cause bone deformities that contribute to FAI.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of FAI include:
-
A common symptom of hip pain is groin pain or pain on the outside of the hip. This pain often worsens with activity.
-
Reduced range of motion and stiffness in the hip joint, especially after prolonged sitting or bending.
-
An experience of clicking, locking, or catching in the hip joint.
-
An altered gait or limp caused by discomfort and pain.
Diagnosis
There are several steps involved in diagnosing FAI:
-
Reviewing the patient's medical history, including any history of hip pain, injuries, or hip disorders in the family.
-
Using specific movements and tests, the physician assesses the hip for pain, range of motion, and any signs of impingement.
-
X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to visualize bone abnormalities and confirm FAI.
-
In an impingement test, the doctor moves the hip in specific ways to reproduce symptoms and assess the joint.
Treatment
FAI treatment options aim to alleviate pain and improve hip function:
-
Modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms can help manage pain.
-
The purpose of physical therapy is to strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve range of motion.
-
Pain and inflammation can be reduced with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
-
Temporary pain relief can be achieved by injecting corticosteroid into the hip joint.
-
If conservative treatments are not effective, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to remove the extra bone growth and repair any cartilage damage.
Prevention
FAI cannot be completely prevented, but certain measures can help reduce its risk:
-
Prevent FAI by limiting repetitive hip movements and taking breaks during activities.
-
It is important to maintain flexibility and strength in the hip muscles so that joint health can be maintained.
-
Keep an eye on symptoms: Early detection and management of symptoms can prevent the condition from worsening.
-
Using protective gear during sports can help prevent injuries that can lead to FAI.
As a result, femoroacetabular impingement occurs when the hip bones are in abnormal contact. The key to managing FAI is to understand its causes, recognize its symptoms, obtain a proper diagnosis, and explore treatment options. Preventative measures can also be taken to reduce the risk and maintain hip joint health.
