Femero Acetabular Impingement (hip impingement syndrome) occurs when either the ball or the socket of the ball and socket (hip) joint is slightly misshapen. Either the ball is too large (so called “cam”), the socket is too deep (so called “pincer”) or either the ball or socket get extra bony prominences on them . Thus the normal mechanics of the joint are altered and there is pain on movement, particularly at the end range of hip movement eg knees to chest etc. The pain occurs because the bones come into contact with each other which blocks further movement.

Treatment of hip impingement syndrome depends on the degree of impingement and bone deformity (diagnosed through medical imaging). Conservative treatment includes physiotherapy, anti inflammatory medication and modified activity/exercise levels. Surgical intervention is sometimes warranted if the deformity is large or if the symptoms are very severe.