Femoroacetabular Impingement

Overview

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a condition where abnormal contact occurs between the femoral head and the acetabulum (hip socket), leading to pain and limited hip movement. Over time, FAI can cause cartilage damage, labral tears, and eventually hip osteoarthritis if left untreated. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.

Introduction

The hip joint, a ball-and-socket structure, allows smooth movement due to its congruence and the surrounding cartilage. FAI occurs when structural abnormalities in the femoral head or acetabulum disrupt this congruence. The condition is commonly seen in young and middle-aged individuals, particularly athletes or those engaged in physically demanding activities. In India, awareness about FAI is growing, with an increasing number of cases being identified due to advancements in diagnostic imaging and specialized orthopaedic care.

Symptoms

The symptoms of FAI can vary but typically include:
– Persistent groin pain, especially during activities like running or squatting.
– Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip joint.
– Sharp pain during specific movements such as bending or twisting.
– Clicking, locking, or catching sensations in the hip.

Causes

FAI is primarily caused by structural abnormalities in the hip joint, categorized into three types:
1. Cam Impingement: An abnormal shape of the femoral head.
2. Pincer Impingement: Overgrowth of the acetabulum.
3. Combined Impingement: A combination of both cam and pincer impingements.

Other contributing factors include:
– High-impact sports such as football, cricket, and hockey.
– Genetic predisposition to hip abnormalities.
– Previous hip injuries or surgeries.

Treatment

Treatment for FAI focuses on relieving symptoms, restoring hip function, and preventing further joint damage. Options include:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
– Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises to improve hip strength, flexibility, and stability.
– Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
– Activity Modifications: Avoiding movements that exacerbate symptoms.
2. Surgical Options:
– Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to reshape the femoral head or acetabulum and repair damaged cartilage or labrum.
– Open Surgery: In complex cases where arthroscopy may not suffice.

Prevention and Risk Factors

Risk Factors:

– Participation in high-impact sports.
– Genetic predisposition to abnormal hip anatomy.
– Age: Most common in young and middle-aged adults.

Prevention:

– Regular stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain hip joint flexibility.
– Early diagnosis of hip pain to address abnormalities before they progress.
– Avoiding overtraining or excessive hip strain during sports.

Insights from Sancheti Hospital

At Sancheti Hospital, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement. Our orthopaedic experts use advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans for precise diagnosis. We offer state-of-the-art arthroscopic and open surgical treatments, combined with comprehensive physiotherapy programs for post-operative recovery.

Our multidisciplinary team emphasizes patient education, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their care. Sancheti Hospital’s commitment to research ensures we stay updated on the latest advancements in FAI management, delivering superior outcomes for our patients.