Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement - FAI) at DRHC Dubai Sports Injury Clinic

What is Hip Impingement (FAI)?

Hip impingement, also known as Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI), is a condition where abnormal bone growths on the hip joint cause friction between the femur (thigh bone) and the acetabulum (hip socket). This friction can damage the cartilage and labrum in the hip joint, leading to pain, limited range of motion, and, over time, arthritis. Hip impingement is common in athletes and individuals involved in activities that require repeated hip flexion, such as running, football, hockey, or dancing.

Types of Hip Impingement

There are three types of FAI, each involving a different abnormality in the shape of the hip joint:

• Cam Impingement: In this type, the femoral head is not perfectly round, causing it to grind against the acetabulum during movement.
• Pincer Impingement: In this case, the acetabulum covers too much of the femoral head, resulting in compression of the labrum.
• Combined Impingement: A combination of both cam and pincer impingement, where both abnormalities occur in the same hip joint.

Causes of Hip Impingement

Hip impingement is often caused by the abnormal development of the hip joint during childhood. However, certain activities can exacerbate the condition, particularly in athletes and those who engage in high-impact sports. Causes include:

• Repetitive Movements: Sports that require frequent twisting, turning, or deep hip flexion can accelerate the development of FAI.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some people may have naturally irregular bone shapes, increasing their risk of developing hip impingement.
• Previous Hip Injuries: Trauma or previous hip injuries may lead to abnormal bone development, contributing to FAI.

Symptoms of Hip Impingement

The symptoms of hip impingement can vary, but common signs include:

• Hip Pain: A deep ache or sharp pain felt in the groin or outer hip, particularly during or after physical activity.
• Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, especially when bending or rotating the hip.
• Locking or Catching Sensation: Some patients experience a clicking, locking, or catching sensation when moving the hip joint.
• Pain During Prolonged Sitting: Pain may worsen when sitting for long periods, especially when the hip is flexed.

Diagnosis of Hip Impingement (FAI)

At DRHC Dubai, diagnosing hip impingement begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. During the examination, our sports medicine specialists will test the range of motion in the hip and assess areas of pain. We may also perform the following diagnostic tests:

• X-rays: To identify any abnormal bone formations on the femoral head or acetabulum.
• MRI or CT scans: These imaging tests are used to assess soft tissue damage, including labral tears or cartilage damage, caused by FAI.

Treatment Options for Hip Impingement

At DRHC Dubai, we provide a range of treatment options for hip impingement based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s activity level. Treatment may include non-surgical and surgical options:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Customized rehabilitation exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles around the hip, improving flexibility, and reducing pressure on the hip joint.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation in the hip joint.
• Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms, such as deep squats or intense physical exertion, to reduce stress on the hip.
• Injections: Corticosteroid or Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections can be used to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the hip joint.

Surgical Treatment:

• Hip Arthroscopy: If conservative treatments do not relieve symptoms, hip arthroscopy may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure involves using a small camera to repair damaged cartilage, remove bone spurs, and reshape the bones to eliminate friction in the joint.
• Labral Repair: If the labrum is torn due to FAI, arthroscopic surgery may be used to repair or reconstruct the labrum, restoring hip stability and function.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from hip impingement depends on the severity of the condition and whether surgery is required. At DRHC Dubai, we offer a comprehensive rehabilitation program designed to promote healing, restore mobility, and prevent future injury. The rehabilitation process includes:

• Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: After hip arthroscopy, our physical therapists will guide you through a personalized exercise program to gradually increase strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the hip.
• Sport-Specific Rehabilitation: For athletes, we offer sport-specific rehab programs that focus on improving movement patterns, flexibility, and stability to help return to competitive play safely.

Preventing Hip Impingement

While not all cases of hip impingement can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing this condition, particularly for athletes:

• Warm-Up and Stretching: Engage in proper warm-up routines and regular stretching exercises to improve hip flexibility and reduce the risk of joint injury.
• Strength Training: Focus on strengthening the muscles around the hips, including the core and glutes, to support the hip joint during physical activity.
• Avoid Overtraining: Incorporate rest days into your training regimen to avoid overuse injuries and excessive stress on the hips.

Why Choose DRHC Dubai for Hip Impingement Treatment?

At DRHC Dubai, our sports injury specialists have extensive experience diagnosing and treating hip impingement. We provide individualized care, from initial diagnosis to rehabilitation, using advanced medical technology and minimally invasive techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our goal is to help you return to your active lifestyle with improved mobility and reduced pain.

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For expert evaluation and treatment of Hip Impingement (FAI) or any other sports-related injuries, schedule an appointment at DRHC Dubai Sports Injury Clinic today Call +97142798200. We are here to help you achieve a full recovery and return to peak performance.