According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition in which extra bone grows along one or both of the bones that form the hip joint — giving the bones an irregular shape. Because they do not fit together perfectly, the bones rub against each other during movement. Over time this friction can damage the joint, causing pain and limiting activity.
What causes FAI? It occurs when the hip bones do not form normally during childhood and there are two types. One is caused by a deformity of the ball at the top of the femur and the other is a deformity of the socket. These are referred to as a cam impingement and pincer impingement. Sometimes individuals can experience problems with both the ball and the socket.
This condition is commonly referred to physical therapy for treatment & rehab. Interested in learning more? We are pleased to have on our faculty Brian Schiff, PT, OCS, CSCS who is an experienced orthopedic physical therapist who presents a 2 hour CEU webinar entitled “Current Concepts in the Treatment & Recognition of Femoroacetabular Impingement” that will provide you with additional information about this condition & a variety of treatment ideas. Check our “live webinars” for upcoming live dates of this course or click HERE for the on-demand version of this webinar that you can complete & earn your CEUs at your own convenience.
Looking for some additional FAI information? Check out a few of Brian’s blog posts below discussing this topic:
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) – A Hidden Source of Hip Pain
Identifying FAI and Hip Pain