Understanding and treating hip impingement

Hip impingement is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues, especially for active individuals or athletes. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is key to managing the pain and preventing long-term damage.

What Is Hip Impingement?

Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), occurs when there is an abnormal contact between the ball and socket of the hip joint. In a healthy hip, the ball (femoral head) moves smoothly in the socket (acetabulum). However, in individuals with hip impingement, the bone structures don’t fit together perfectly, leading to friction that damages the cartilage and joint over time. There are two main types of hip impingement:

Cam impingement: When the femoral head is abnormally shaped and doesn’t fit into the socket properly.

Pincer impingement: When the acetabulum (hip socket) covers too much of the femoral head, causing friction.

What Does Hip Impingement Feel Like?

Hip impingement often presents as a deep, aching pain in the groin or hip area. It may worsen with physical activity, particularly movements that involve hip flexion, such as running, squatting, or sitting for extended periods. Other common symptoms include:

• Reduced range of motion in the hip.
• Sharp pain when twisting or pivoting the hip.
• Stiffness in the groin or thigh area.

If left untreated, hip impingement can lead to cartilage damage and increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the hip joint.

Hip Impingement Treatment

Treatment for hip impingement often begins with conservative approaches such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles around the hip to improve joint stability and flexibility. Modifying activities that aggravate the hip, such as avoiding deep squats or high-impact sports, can also be helpful.

In cases where conservative treatment does not alleviate the symptoms, hip impingement surgery may be necessary. This procedure, called hip arthroscopy, involves using minimally invasive techniques to reshape the bones, repair cartilage, and remove any damaged tissue. Surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve range of motion, helping patients return to their normal activities.

What Is Hip Impingement Surgery?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that corrects the structural abnormalities causing hip impingement. Surgeons make small incisions to access the hip joint, allowing them to trim excess bone and repair cartilage. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery, but most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within a few months.

Contact Southwest Foot and Ankle Center

If you’re struggling with chronic pain from hip impingement or a related foot and ankle condition, the Southwest Foot and Ankle Center can help. Our experts specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of chronic conditions, ensuring you get the care you need to live pain-free. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and schedule your consultation!