Hip Impingement

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Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), is a condition that involves abnormal contact between the bones of the hip joint. This occurs when the femoral head, located on the top of the thigh bone, and the acetabulum, the socket of the pelvis, rub against each other during certain movements. This friction can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the hip.

There are two types of hip impingement: cam impingement and pincer impingement. Cam impingement is characterized by a misshapen femoral head, while pincer impingement occurs when the acetabulum covers too much of the femoral head. Both types can cause damage to the hip joint and surrounding tissues over time.

Hip impingement is commonly seen in young and active individuals, especially athletes involved in sports that require repetitive hip movements. It can also develop as a result of structural abnormalities, such as developmental hip dysplasia.

Treatment options for hip impingement include conservative measures such as physical therapy, pain management, and rest. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the structural abnormalities and alleviate symptoms.