Hip Impingement

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a common cause of activity-related hip pain, especially in athletes. Our orthopaedic experts can provide accurate diagnoses, guidance, and professional care to help you return to pain-free activity as quickly and safely as possible.

Hip Impingement

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Introduction

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition where extra bone or an abnormal shape in the hip joint causes the ball and socket to rub together in a way that they shouldn’t. This repeated friction can damage the cartilage or the labrum (the ring of tissue around the hip socket), leading to pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility. FAI is common in active adults and athletes, but anyone can experience it. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help relieve symptoms and protect the long-term health of the hip.

Cam-Type FAI

In cam-type FAI, extra bone forms on the femoral head—the “ball” of the hip joint. This bump prevents the ball from rotating smoothly inside the socket. When the hip bends or twists, the abnormal shape can pinch the cartilage or labrum. Cam-type impingement is often seen in young, active individuals and may cause deep groin pain during sports, exercise, or movements that involve hip flexion.

Pincer-Type FAI

Pincer-type FAI happens when the socket covers too much of the femoral head. This over-coverage causes the labrum to get pinched between the bones during hip motion. People with pincer-type impingement often experience pain after prolonged sitting, running, or activities that involve repetitive hip motion. It is more common in adults, though it can occur at any age.

Treatments for FAI

Most cases of FAI can be managed with non-surgical treatments, including:

Activity modification to reduce movements that irritate the hip
Physical therapy focused on hip strength, flexibility, and improving movement patterns
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce discomfort
Corticosteroid injections for temporary relief when pain is significant

These approaches can help reduce pain and improve hip function, especially in mild-to-moderate cases.

Hip Arthroscopy

If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, hip arthroscopy may be recommended. This minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and a camera to access the joint. During the procedure, the surgeon can reshape the bone causing the impingement, repair the labrum, and smooth damaged cartilage. Hip arthroscopy aims to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further joint damage. Most patients return to daily activities within weeks, with full recovery guided by physical therapy.

References

Bedi A, Kelly BT. Femoroacetabular Impingement. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2013;95(1):82-92. doi:10.2106/JBJS.K.01219.

Amanatullah DF, Antkowiak T, Pillay K, et al. Femoroacetabular Impingement: Current Concepts in Diagnosis and Treatment. Orthopedics. 2015;38(3):185-199. doi:10.3928/01477447-20150305-07.

Gao I, Safran MR. Nonsurgical Versus Surgical Management of Femoroacetabular Impingement: What Does the Current Best Evidence Tell Us. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2021;29(10):e471-e478. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-20-00571