Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition where the hip bones are deformed. Because the bones do not fit together properly, the bones rub against each other and cause joint damage.

Bone spurs can develop along the femoral head and/or the acetabulum. The bone overgrowth causes the hip bones to hit against each other, rather than to move smoothly. Over time, this can result in the tearing of the labrum and breakdown of articular cartilage, also known as osteoarthritis.

Types of FAI

There are three types of FAI:

  1. Pincer impingement occurs when extra bone extends beyond the acetabulum rim. The prominent acetabulum rim can crush the labrum.
  2. Cam impingement happens when the ball at the top of the femur is abnormally shaped and cannot rotate smoothly within the acetabulum. The deformed part of the head can jam in the socket when the hip is bent, which may occur during activities like tying your shoe or riding a bicycle.
  3. Combined impingement means that both the pincer and cam impingements are present.

Hip impingement symptoms include pain, stiffness and limping. Symptoms indicate possible cartilage or labrum damage. The disease is likely to progress without treatment.

If you have FAI symptoms, you need to see a Southern Joint Replacement Institute hip specialist to determine the exact cause of your hip pain and provide treatment options.

Nonsurgical Treatment

There are three nonsurgical treatment options your Southern Joint Replacement Institute doctor may recommend:

  1. Activity changes. Your physician may recommend avoiding activities that cause symptoms as a first step.
  2. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory medicine in a prescription-strength form may be given to reduce pain and inflammation.
  3. Physical therapy. There are exercises that can improve the range of hip motion, strengthen the muscles supporting the hip joint, and alleviate stress on the injured cartilage or labrum.

Surgical Treatment

If nonsurgical treatment fails to relieve pain and other symptoms, and tests show joint damage, your doctor may recommend surgery.

Many FAI conditions can be successfully treated with arthroscopic surgery.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 877-442-SJRI (7574).