Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), is a condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together properly. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. If left untreated, it can progress to arthritis and other serious conditions. In this blog post, we'll discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for hip impingement.
Causes of Hip Impingement
Hip impingement typically occurs when the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) is too large or the acetabulum (the socket of the hip joint) is too deep. This can cause the bones to rub against each other, leading to irritation and damage.
Symptoms of Hip Impingement
Common symptoms of hip impingement include:
- Groin pain, especially when walking, running, or climbing stairs
- Stiffness in the hip joint
- Limited range of motion
- Snapping or clicking sounds in the hip joint
Diagnosis of Hip Impingement
To diagnose hip impingement, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam to assess your range of motion and identify any tenderness or pain. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to get a better view of the hip joint.
Treatment Options for Hip Impingement
The treatment for hip impingement will depend on the severity of your condition. In many cases, non-surgical treatments can be effective. These may include:
- Physical therapy: Exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the hip joint and improve flexibility.
- Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers can help manage pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: These injections can help reduce inflammation and pain.
In severe cases of hip impingement, surgery may be necessary. The most common surgical procedure for hip impingement is hip arthroscopy. This minimally invasive procedure involves making small incisions around the hip joint and using a camera to view the inside of the joint. The surgeon can then remove any damaged tissue and restore the proper alignment of the hip joint.
Travel Patients and Hip Arthroscopy
Many people from across the country and even from other countries travel to Chicago to undergo hip arthroscopy or to seek a second opinion from Dr. Benjamin Domb and the team at American Hip Institute. Our expertise in hip surgery and our commitment to providing personalized care make us a top destination for patients seeking treatment for hip impingement and other hip conditions.
To speak with a member of our concierge care travel team, contact us today.
