Hip pain can interfere with daily life, making simple activities like walking, sitting, or exercising uncomfortable. One common cause of hip pain is hip impingement, a condition that affects the way the femoral head fits into the hip socket.
At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we provide expert care for hip problems in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), occurs when abnormal bone growth in the hip joint leads to friction between the femoral head (the top of the thigh bone) and the hip socket. This friction can cause cartilage damage, leading to pain and reduced range of motion.
There are three main types of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI):
Many people do not notice symptoms of hip impingement in the early stages. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms may include:
Femoroacetabular impingement is often caused by abnormal growth in the ball and socket joint, leading to an irregular shape of the femoral head or hip socket. The reason for this seems to be genetic.
Exercise and repetitive movement does not cause FAI. However, those who vigorously use their hips often begin to feel pain earlier.
Childhood conditions like Perthes disease or slipped capital femoral epiphysis have also been related to hip impingement syndrome.
To get a hip impingement diagnosed, an orthopedic specialist will perform a physical exam and order advanced imaging tests. These tests may include:
Treatment for hip impingement syndrome depends on the severity of the condition. You will likely be recommended for non-surgical treatments to begin with. Non-surgical options include:
If hip impingement symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be necessary. Hip impingement surgery options include hip arthroscopy. This is a minimally invasive procedure using small incisions to reshape the femoral head and remove excess bone. This can sometimes be done as outpatient surgery, with many patients returning home the same day.
In some cases, open surgery may be necessary to access the hip joint.
Recovery time depends on the treatment chosen. After hip arthroscopy, most patients can resume light activities within a few weeks, with full recovery taking several months. Physical therapy is essential for regaining range of motion and preventing future hip problems.
If you’re experiencing hip pain or have been diagnosed with femoroacetabular impingement, the specialists at Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine can help. Our team in Granville and Coshocton, OH, offers expert diagnosis and treatment, including hip impingement surgery and non-surgical care.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward pain relief and improved mobility!
Medically reviewed by Eric Erb, MD
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