Hip Impingement: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN

What Is Hip Impingement?

Hip impingement, medically known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), occurs when there is an abnormal contact between the femur (thigh bone) and the acetabulum (hip socket). This condition leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the hip joint.

Understanding its causes and treatment options is critical for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

If hip pain or stiffness from hip impingement is affecting your daily activities or exercise routine, you don’t have to manage it alone. With clinics near Kent and Essex, Joint Injection Clinic offers advanced care to help you move comfortably and stay active.

Schedule your consultation now!
Hip Pain Treatment Near Kent and Essex

Common Causes of Hip Impingement

Hip impingement arises from structural abnormalities in the hip joint. The two primary types are:

  • Cam Impingement: This occurs when there is an abnormality in the shape of the femoral head, often resulting in extra bone growth. This abnormal shape can cause the femur to jam against the socket during hip movements.
  • Pincer Impingement: In this case, the acetabulum extends too far over the femoral head, leading to pinching during hip flexion and movement. This type is more common in females.

Additionally, some individuals may experience both types simultaneously. Other contributing factors include:

  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: A condition affecting blood supply to the ball portion of the hip joint.
  • Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: A condition where the head of the femur becomes displaced.
  • Coxa Vara: A growth discrepancy affecting the femur and hip joint alignment.

Symptoms of Hip Impingement

Often, individuals with hip impingement may not experience symptoms initially. When symptoms do develop, they commonly include:

  • Groin pain, particularly when walking or bending the hip.
  • Reduced range of motion in the hip.
  • Pain during activities like cycling or sitting for extended periods.
  • Nighttime discomfort or pain during flat-ground walking, which may indicate cartilage wear and potential osteoarthritis.

How Is Hip Impingement Diagnosed?

Diagnosing hip impingement typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as:

  • X-rays: To check for deformities in bone structure.
  • MRI: To assess cartilage integrity and identify any tears in the labrum.
  • CT scans: To obtain detailed images of the hip joint.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatment for Hip Impingement

Initial treatment often focuses on conservative measures:

  • Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding movements that exacerbate pain.
  • Physiotherapy: Engaging in targeted exercises to strengthen muscles and enhance hip stability.
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
  • Steroid Injections: A steroid injection can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Advanced Treatment Options for Hip Impingement

If conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered:

  • Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to repair or reshape the joint structures. Most often, this method is employed for repairing joint damage or reshaping the femur or acetabulum.
  • Hip Replacement: In cases of severe cartilage damage, a total hip replacement might be necessary to restore function and relieve pain.

Conclusion

Hip impingement can significantly impact daily life and physical activities. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to manage symptoms effectively and prevent further joint damage. If you experience hip pain, especially when engaging in typical activities, consulting a healthcare professional is essential. Through a combination of conservative treatment and potential surgical options, many individuals can find relief and return to an active lifestyle.

Get Help for Hip Impingement at Joint Injection Clinic

If hip impingement is causing pain, reduced mobility, or discomfort during walking, sitting, or exercise, you don’t have to manage it alone. At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team offers evidence-based treatments to relieve pain and improve hip function.

We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:

Dartford Clinic – ideal for those in Kent and South East London

Address: Unit 30, 1st Floor, The Base Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford, DA1 5FS.

Romford Clinic – easily accessible from Essex and Greater London

Address: Room no 8, Alliance Office Space 2-4 Eastern Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 3PJ.

Canterbury Clinic – serving East Kent and surrounding areas

Address: 12-17 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, CT1 2NF, United Kingdom.


From ultrasound-guided assessments and targeted injections to personalised physiotherapy and rehabilitation plans, our specialists can help you manage hip pain effectively and return to your usual activities with confidence.

Schedule your consultation now!