That pain in your hip may be signaling a problem with your hip joint that, left unattended, could lead to damage. Hip impingement, also known as Femoroacetabular impingement, is a condition in which the bones of the hip joint do not move smoothly, and the range of motion is impaired.
Causes of Hip Impingement
Cam lesions, abnormal bumps on the head and neck junction of the hip ball, are a second cause of hip impingement. This condition appears in adolescence when the growth plates are open. Some physical activities can cause stimulation of bone, which begins to grow and create the cam lesions.
Femoral retrotorsion occurs when there is an abnormal twist in the thigh bone. This, combined with one or both of the other conditions, can also lead to impingement.
Symptoms
One of the main symptoms of hip impingement is pain in the groin. Walking and flexing the hip exacerbate the pain. You may also notice decreased range of motion. Sitting for long periods of time and walking uphill can make the pain more noticeable as the condition progresses. When the cartilage that cushions the ball and socket begins to break down and wear away, pain can increase. Eventually, walking on flat surfaces may cause pain and you may feel discomfort at night.
Treatment
Hip impingement can be successfully treated. Simple treatment includes resting the hip and avoiding movements that cause pain. Some activities may need to be modified in order to prevent discomfort. There are exercises that can be recommended to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint, and anti-inflammatory and pain medications can be prescribed.
Arthroscopy is a type of minimally invasive surgery that is used to treat some types of hip impingement. Damage to the cartilage needs to be assessed before any type of surgery is recommended.
Ortho Sport & Spine physicians provide a variety of solutions for hip impingement. If you suffer from hip pain, call our office and schedule an appointment for an exam and consultation. With a variety of treatments available, there is no need for you to suffer the discomfort of hip impingement. Contact us today.
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