Femoroacetabular impingement

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose FAI, a number of tests will be recommended. The healthcare provider will inquire about the family history and amount of activity. Healthcare provider may request the following to support FAI diagnosis.

• Physical exam: Can determine if the hip joint is functioning properly by analyzing the range of motion, muscular strength, and walking style.
• Impingement test: The test will probably be performed by the healthcare provider during the physical assessment. Patient’s knee will be raised near to their chest and rotated inward toward the opposite shoulder. If doing so causes hip pain then impingement has been detected during the test.
• Imaging tests: To assist identifying FAI, healthcare provider will perform imaging testing.
  • X-ray: can generate images of the bones in your hip that show signs of FAI and any arthritis symptoms present.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan: are more thorough than standard x-rays, enable the healthcare provider to pinpoint the precise abnormal hip shape.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): which can create detailed images of soft tissue, can help a doctor detect damage to the labrum and cartilage in the joint. The use of contrast dye during the MRI can enhance visibility of the damage.
• Local anesthetic: By injecting numbing medication into the hip joint to test if it reduces discomfort. Temporary pain reduction from the numbing medication is confirm that patient have FAI.

Treatment

Treatment for FAI varies depending on the patient and the extent of the damage. Options for FAI treatment include:

• Corticosteroids: These medications lessen hip joint swelling and inflammation. This treatment is typically given by injection.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): This kind of medication often comes in pill form and reduces inflammation. Ibuprofen and other medications can be given at prescription strength to help with pain management and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: The hip’s range of motion can be increased by certain exercises, which can also strengthen the muscles that support the joint. The injured labrum or cartilage may feel less strain as a result.
• Rest: You can reduce friction in the hip joint by decreasing certain activities. Healthcare provider may recommend changing your daily routine and avoiding activities that may cause FAI.
• Surgery: If non-surgical treatments are not providing any pain relief and still reveal that FAI has damaged the joints, healthcare provider may advise surgery, such as:
  • Arthroscopic hip surgery: In this minimally invasive surgery, the surgeon fixes or eliminates damaged bone or cartilage. Thin devices and small incisions are used during arthroscopic treatments. An arthroscope, a tiny camera used by surgeons to examine inside the hip.
  • Traditional hip surgery: When the damage is more serious, surgeons perform an open surgery with a wider incision to repair the damage.