Why does my hip get stuck? By Eleni Tsagaris – Physiotherapist
Femoral Acetabular Impingement – what is it?
The hip joint is composed of the femoral head (rounded top of the thigh bone) and acetabulum of the pelvis (hip socket). Lining the acetabulum, is a thin layer of smooth cartilage that enables the femoral head to glide within the socket, and prevents the two bones from grinding against each other. Lining the rim of the acetabulum is a rim of cartilage called the labrum which acts to secure the femoral head within the acetabulum.
Hip impingement or femoroacetabular impingement, is a common condition that occurs because of abnormal contact between the femoral head and the hip socket, eventually resulting in damage to the cartilage and labrum.
There are three main types of hip impingement:
Pincer impingements: occur when the anterior (front) aspect of the femoral head protrudes excessively from the acetabulum and impinges on the front of the acetabular rim, resulting in damage to the cartilage and labrum.
Cam impingements: occur due to a change in the morphology of the femoral head resulting in a bony growth or protrusion, interfering with the way the femoral head rotates within the hip joint.
Combined impingements: impingement that involves a combination of pincer and cam impingements.
Symptoms of hip impingement may include:
– Joint stiffness
– Hip or groin pain
– Clicking or catching
– Feelings of giving way
– Reduced range of motion
Physiotherapy treatments for hip impingement is aimed to reduce pain, restore hip mobility and range of motion, strengthen surrounding musculature to provide greater stability as well as facilitate return to sport or functional activities. Physiotherapy treatments may include soft tissue therapy, dry needling, joint mobilisations, prescription of mobility and strengthening exercises, gait re-education, as well as advice for self management.
For more information on how our experienced Physiotherapists can assist you in the management of your hip impingement, contact us at your closest clinic today.
Eleni Tsagaris
Physiotherapist Potts Point and Mona Vale
Ph: 9979 8887
