Hip Impingement & Labral Tears

Hip Impingement, also called Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI), occurs when the ball and socket of the hip do not fit together smoothly. Repeated abnormal contact between the bones can pinch the labrum, damage joint cartilage and eventually lead to early hip arthritis.

Types of Hip Impingement

There are three main types:

• Cam Impingement: An abnormal bony prominence develops at the femoral head-neck junction.
• Pincer Impingement: The hip socket provides excessive coverage over the femoral head.
• Mixed Impingement: A combination of both Cam and Pincer deformities.

What is a Hip Labral Tear?

The labrum is a ring of cartilage around the edge of the hip socket. It helps stabilise, lubricate and cushion the joint.

A labral tear may develop from repeated impingement, twisting sports injuries, falls or trauma. It often occurs alongside FAI.

Common Symptoms of FAI

Patients may experience:

• Groin pain during hip bending or rotation
• Pain after prolonged sitting
• Clicking, catching or locking sensations
• Hip stiffness or reduced movement
• Limping during activity
• Pain during running, sports or gym exercises

Pain may also be felt around the outer hip, buttock or upper thigh.

How is Hip FAI Diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include:

• Detailed clinical examination
• Hip X-rays
• MRI scan to assess the labrum and cartilage
• CT scan with 3D reconstruction for detailed surgical planning

These investigations help determine the type of impingement and the extent of joint damage. This helps in planning accurate treatment.

Non-Surgical Treatment of Hip FAI

Initial treatment may include:

• Activity modification
• Avoiding painful deep hip flexion
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Specialised hip physiotherapy
• Strengthening of hip and core muscles
• Diagnostic or therapeutic injections in selected patients

Many mild cases improve with structured rehabilitation.

When is Surgery Recommended in Hip FAI?

Surgery may be considered when:

• Pain persists despite physiotherapy
• Symptoms interfere with sport or daily activities
• MRI confirms a significant labral tear
• Structural deformity continues to damage the joint
• There is little or no advanced arthritis

Early treatment may help protect the cartilage and delay progression to hip arthritis.

Hip Arthroscopy in FAI

Hip Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive keyhole procedure used to treat selected cases of FAI and labral tears.

During surgery:

• Cam or Pincer deformities are reshaped
• Torn labral tissue is repaired or carefully trimmed
• Associated cartilage damage is assessed and treated

Hip Arthroscopy is a specialised joint-preservation procedure and offers excellent results in appropriately selected patients. It preserves the natural hip joint, relieves pain and reduces the risk of developing early arthritis.

Recovery after FAI Surgery

Most patients benefit from:

• Early mobilisation after surgery
• Personalised physiotherapy programme
• Gradual return to work and daily activities
• Return to sports within 3–6 months depending upon procedure performed

A structured rehabilitation programme is essential for optimal recovery.

Why Choose Dr Anand Jadhav?

Dr Anand Jadhav offers comprehensive treatment for Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI):

• Hip Labral Tears
• Sports Hip Injuries
• Hip Arthroscopy
• Hip Joint Preservation
• Hip Replacement for advanced arthritis

His approach focuses on identifying the structural cause of pain and preserving the natural hip whenever possible.

His Aim is Simple