Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a condition in which the bones of the hip joint do not fit together properly. In a healthy hip, the ball of the femur is smooth and round, allowing it to glide easily within the hip socket. With FAI, the ball, the socket, or both are shaped abnormally, causing them to rub against each other during movement.

What Is It?

FAI occurs when there is an abnormal shape in the femoral head, hip socket, or both. These irregularities prevent the hip joint from moving smoothly. Instead of gliding freely, the bones make contact in ways they should not, which can damage cartilage and labral tissue over time. This can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and long-term hip problems if left untreated.

What Causes It?

FAI is caused by abnormal bone development in childhood or adolescence. As the hip grows, one or more bony overgrowths may form around the femoral head or socket. These growths create an uneven joint surface and limit normal movement. When the hip flexes or rotates, the bones press or rub against each other instead of moving smoothly, leading to irritation and pain.

Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms of FAI include:

• Pain or stiffness in the hip
• A deep ache in the groin or outer hip
• Sharp pain with certain movements
• Reduced range of motion
• A limp or difficulty performing athletic activities

Symptoms often worsen with bending, twisting, or prolonged sitting.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Initial treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving mobility. Non-surgical options may include:

• Medications to decrease pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy to strengthen the hip and improve flexibility
• Activity modification to avoid painful movements

These approaches help manage symptoms but do not correct the underlying bone shape.

Surgical Treatment

If conservative treatment does not provide relief, surgery may be recommended. Our hip preservation specialist, Benton A. Emblom, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who frequently diagnoses and treats femoroacetabular impingement. Surgical options may include reshaping the bone and repairing damaged tissue to restore proper hip mechanics and reduce pain.

Benton A. Emblom, MD

Benton A. Emblom, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon who specializes in hip preservation and the treatment of non-arthritic hip disorders such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). He is a member of The Hip Center at Andrews Sports Medicine and has extensive experience caring for competitive athletes and active individuals with early hip problems.

Dr. Emblom serves as a head team orthopaedic physician for Auburn University, the University of Alabama, Hoover High School, and several other local high schools. His expertise in hip preservation allows him to provide both non-surgical care and advanced surgical solutions designed to improve hip function and relieve pain.

If you believe you may have FAI or another hip condition and would like to request an appointment with Dr. Emblom, call (205) 939-3699 and ask to speak with his appointment scheduler.

To request an appointment online, CLICK HERE or contact Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center at (205) 939-3699 for assistance.