Femoroacetabular Impingement in Athletes: Current Concepts.
The concept of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) as a common source of hip dysfunction and pain has gained momentum both within the research and clinical community in recent years. Although FAI may occasionally present as an incidental asymptomatic finding, detecting pathological FAI is imperative towards minimising its harmful effects. The purpose of this article was to provide an overview of where we currently sit in terms of identification, assessment, and treatment of FAI within the medical community.
Subjective findings such as deep anterior groin pain with associated intermittent catching and locking are typical in the diagnostic work-up of FAI. Diminished internal rotation is a trademark feature on physical examination, which is characteristic of the structural changes within the hip joint. However, both the log roll test and anterior impingement test offer a more specific investigation into the presence of FAI.
Conservative treatment, such as training modifications and pelvic stabilisation exercises, may provide some benefit in managing symptoms. However, surgical intervention is generally indicated in the cases where secondary joint damage is evident.
With the correct identification and management, the majority of athletes should be able to resume their normal activities. Nevertheless, caution remains as to the long-term implications of high-level demanding sports and activity > From: Byrd, Am J Sports Med (2013) (Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to Sage.
The Pubmed summary of the article can be found here.
(Image by: Kevin Neeld)