Hip impingement, medically termed Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI), occurs when there is extra bony growth at the hip joint; either at the acetabulum (hip socket), on the side of the femoral
neck (top of the thigh bone), or at both sites. This irregularity can result in abnormal bony contact
leading to pain in the hip, groin, and in some cases, also the back, butt, or thigh. Additionally, you
may experience clicking, catching, locking, stiffness, or limited range of motion. Symptoms
commonly occur at the end ranges of your available hip range of motion, such as during a deep
squat, deadlift, sitting for long durations, and various sporting activities.
What causes it?
FAI can occur if the hip bones do not form normally during childhood growth. Physically active
people may experience pain from FAI earlier than people who are not as active. But in most cases,
exercise does not cause FAI. People who perform sports & exercises with repetitive hip flexion and
rotation are more likely to experience the abnormal bony contact in the joint and therefore present
with this condition more often.
How can we manage it?
Depending the stage and severity of the condition, hip impingement can be treated through a range
of strategies including rest, modification of aggravating activities, anti-inflammatory medication,
physical therapy, and exercise rehabilitation to strengthen the muscles that support the hip. Often
these conservative strategies will be implemented through the assistance of a physical therapist
such as an Osteopath for at least 12 weeks prior to the consideration of surgical intervention.
If this sounds like something you are experiencing or have felt in the past, come visit one of our Blackburn
Osteopath’s at Blackburn Allied Health Group as we each have a wealth of knowledge on how to
manage this hip condition.
