Hip Pinch: Understanding Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
OrthoEducation by OrthoEducation
Episode notes
Why does your hip hurt when you sit for long periods, get out of a car, squat, or play sports? In this episode, we explore femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), a common cause of hip and groin pain that occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit together as smoothly as they should. Over time, this abnormal contact can damage important structures in the hip, including the labrum and joint cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
We discuss the two main types of FAI—Cam impingement and Pincer impingement—and explain why these bony changes develop. You’ll learn who is most likely to be affected, why some people with FAI never develop symptoms, and how activities such as sports, prolonged sitting, twisting, and squatting can trigger pain. We also review common symptoms, including groin pain, hip stiffness, cli ...