Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
What is Femoroacetabular Impingement?
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition that results from abnormal contact between the top of the thigh bone (femoral head) and the rim of the acetabulum (hip socket). Damage can occur to the surfaces of the hip joint over time as a result of repeated abnormal contact during activities and range of motion of the hip.
What causes Femoroacetabular Impingement?
FAI can be caused by a combination of genetics and environment. The shape of the femoral head can be slightly abnormal causing uneven contact on the acetabulum called a Cam FAI.
The acetabulum can be too deep causing excess coverage of the femoral head which can lead to impingement of the cartilage rim (labrum) of the socket. This type of FAI is called a Pincer.
Who is Affected by Femoroacetabular Impingement?
Some orthopaedic experts believe that heavy physical activities can contribute to FAI such as football, weight lifting or heavy labor especially before skeletal maturity occurs.
Next: Symptoms and diagnosis