Femoroacetabular impingement in athletes

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Human Anatomy

Background:

• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a hip condition involving abnormal morphology of the femoral head or acetabulum.
• First identified in the mid-1990s, FAI is increasingly diagnosed in professional athletes presenting with hip or groin pain and restricted range of motion.
• FAI commonly affects young, active individuals, particularly athletes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the types, diagnosis, and management of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in athletes.
• To outline strategies for the successful return of athletes to sports participation following FAI diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in athletic populations.
• Discussion of diagnostic criteria and clinical presentation of FAI.
• Analysis of current management and treatment protocols for FAI in athletes.

Main Results:

• FAI is characterized by cam (femoral head) or pincer (acetabulum) deformities, leading to hip pain and limited mobility.
• Diagnosis typically follows patient-reported symptoms and physical examination, often in young athletes.
• Successful management and treatment can enable athletes to return to their sports.

Conclusions:

• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a significant condition in athletes that requires specific diagnostic and management approaches.
• Understanding FAI's morphology, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial for optimizing athlete recovery and return to play.
• This condition, though challenging, can be effectively managed to allow athletes to resume their athletic careers.