Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a hip pathology that involves excessive bone growth on either the femur (ball) or the acetabulum (cup) side of the hip joint. When the bone growth is on the femur it is termed a “cam” lesion and when it is on the acetabular side it referred to as a “pincer” lesion. These bony growths result in early contact between the hip joint structures, resulting in impingement or compression between the two structures. In addition to the bony contact, this bony deformity frequently results in excessive stress on both the labrum and the cartilage in the hip, both of which serve to dissipate forces within the hip, and often results in tearing of of one or both of these structures (Ayeni, 2014; Chen, 2008). The combination of bony impingement and damage to the labrum and/or cartilage results in pain, weakness and instability of the hip.
FAI is often found in young athletic individuals and has been shown to result from a combination of factors, such as genetics, environmental factors, and type of sporting/physical activities (Chaudhry, 2014; Packer, 2015). Movements such as squatting, pivoting and cutting are often most restricted due to a combination of the bony contact and resulting pain and instability. Success with conservative care has been shown to be significant; although, surgical results have been shown to be slightly better in a specific population (Griffin, 2018). Many factors can influence the outcome of treatment, including the extent of bony formation, the extent of labral damage, the degree of abnormal muscle firing patterns around the hip joint and the level of sport the individual is hoping to return to. Physical therapy can help by addressing strength and mobility deficits that are causing/contributing to the issue.
Whether you are pursuing a non-surgical or post-surgical course of care, we’re here to help you return to your optimal performance! As a sports physical therapist, I completed by specialty training/residency at Howard Head in Vail, CO. While there, I had the chance to work with one of the pioneers in the treatments of this pathology, Dr. Marc Philippon. As a result, I gained extensive experience working with athletes that were able to successfully avoid surgery as well as those that were recovering from a surgical procedure to correct this condition. If you suspect that you might have this condition, give us a call at 970-797-2431 and schedule an appointment.
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