What is femoroacetabular impingement
The hip joint is formed where the head of the femur meets the pelvis at a point called the acetabulum. This joint requires appropriate space to operate and allow for the necessary musculature and other tissue to pass through. Excessive bone growth of either the acetabulum or the femur may impinge on this space, restricting range of movement and causing pain.
Causes / Aetiology
Bone growth of this kind often occurs in people with athletic and sporting backgrounds during childhood and adolescence, particularly those which require significant hip mobility such as football, athletics, and basketball. FAI is also more common in those with a history of hip fracture.
Symptoms
Most commonly, FAI presents with groin, hip or buttock pain that is triggered with certain movements of the hip, such as squatting and climbing stairs. People with FAI may also report sensations of grinding or clicking, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion.
How My Physio My Health treats this condition
Physiotherapy treatment is effective in managing FAI, aiming to increase the strength and stability of the hip and reduce pain. A My Physio My Health physiotherapist will cater a treatment program based on your individual needs, incorporating manual tissue release and joint mobilisation. Your physiotherapist may incorporate taping to alleviate your hip. Additionally, an exercise program with a focus on strength and flexibility around the core, hip, and gluteal muscles will aim to increase your body's natural support systems.
If you suspect you may have Femoroacetabular Impingement or are experiencing similar symptoms, please book with our physio team.
Written by Austin Blake
Austin graduated from Flinders University with a Master of Physiotherapy in 2021. He enjoys treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, with a passion for chronic pain presentations including back, neck and shoulders. Austin is also keen on treating temperomandibular (jaw) pain, sporting injuries, foot pain, and repetitive use injuries such as tennis elbow. He believes that rehabilitation is best facilitated through the use of hands-on therapy and client empowerment, through education and exercise therapy.
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