Femoral Acetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a condition where the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) of the hip joint do not move smoothly together, leading to abnormal contact. Over time, this can irritate the joint, causing pain and limiting hip movement.

FAI often develops in active individuals or athletes, particularly those who perform repetitive hip flexion, rotation, or high-impact activities. It can also be linked to certain hip shapes that make the joint more prone to impingement.

There are two main types of FAI:

• Cam type – the femoral head is not perfectly round, causing abnormal contact with the socket
• Pincer type – the socket covers too much of the femoral head, leading to pinching of the labrum
• Mixed type – features of both cam and pincer impingement
   

Common symptoms include:

• Groin or hip pain, often during or after activity
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Pain with hip flexion, twisting, or prolonged sitting
• Clicking, catching, or a sense of instability in the hip

Physiotherapy management focuses on:

• Reducing pain and inflammation
• Restoring hip mobility and flexibility
• Strengthening the hip, gluteal, and core muscles
• Optimising movement patterns to reduce impingement
• Supporting safe return to sport or daily activity