Iowa (563) 322-0971
Illinois (309) 762-3621
Illinois (309) 762-3621
If you are living with hip pain or stiffness, you are not alone. Many people in the Quad Cities and surrounding areas experience discomfort that keeps them from enjoying their favorite activities. At ORA Orthopedics, our team of specialists is here to help you find relief. We are the largest and most advanced provider of orthopedic and sports medicine care in the region, with convenient locations in Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline, Silvis—and surrounding communities across eastern Iowa and western Illinois.
Femoral acetabular impingement, or FAI, is a condition that affects the hip joint. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, made up of the femoral head (the “ball”) and the acetabulum (the “socket”). In FAI, extra bone grows along one or both of these bones. This extra bone gives the joint an odd shape, which can cause the bones to rub against each other during movement. Over time, this rubbing can damage the cartilage and the labrum, which is a ring of cartilage that helps keep the joint stable.
FAI often starts because of abnormal bone growth during childhood or adolescence. However, it can affect people of all ages, especially those who are active in sports or physical activities. If left untreated, FAI can lead to more serious problems, such as labral tears or hip osteoarthritis.
Treatments & Conditions
Femoral Acetabular Impingement can cause a variety of symptoms. Some people may have only mild discomfort, while others may have more severe pain. Common symptoms include:
Pain in the hip or groin, especially during activity or after sitting for a long time
Stiffness in the hip joint
A feeling of catching, clicking, or locking in the hip
Difficulty moving the hip, such as squatting, twisting, or climbing stairs
Reduced range of motion
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to see a hip specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage to your hip joint.
At ORA Orthopedics, our experienced doctors use a combination of physical exams and advanced imaging to diagnose FAI. During your visit, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will check your hip’s range of motion and may perform special tests to see if certain movements cause pain.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, help your doctor see the shape of your hip bones and look for any damage to the cartilage or labrum. These tests are important for confirming the diagnosis and planning your treatment.
Every patient is unique, and so is every treatment plan at ORA Orthopedics. Our goal is to help you return to the activities you enjoy, free from pain. We offer a full range of treatment options for femoral acetabular impingement, including both non-surgical and surgical care.
Many people with FAI can find relief with non-surgical treatments, especially if the condition is caught early. These options may include:
Our team will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.
If non-surgical treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery may be recommended. At ORA Orthopedics, our fellowship-trained surgeons use the latest minimally invasive techniques to treat FAI. Hip arthroscopy is a common procedure for FAI. During this surgery, the surgeon uses small incisions and a tiny camera to see inside the hip joint. They can remove or repair damaged tissue and reshape the bones to allow for smoother movement.
Femoral acetabular impingement can make it hard to enjoy life, but you don’t have to live with pain. The specialists at ORA Orthopedics are here to help you get back to the activities you love. Whether you need advice on activity modification, physical therapy, or advanced surgical care, we have the expertise and experience to guide you every step of the way.
If you are ready to take the next step toward relief, contact ORA Orthopedics today to schedule a consultation at our Hip & Knee Center of Excellence. Let us help you move better, feel better, and live better.
Ready to get started?
Call ORA Orthopedics or request an appointment online to learn more about your treatment options for femoral acetabular impingement.
Yes. FAI is increasingly recognized as a leading cause of hip pain in active adolescents and young adults, especially athletes. It often goes undiagnosed until symptoms worsen or interfere with daily activities.
While bone shape abnormalities can’t be prevented, early detection through screening (especially in young athletes) and activity modification may reduce the risk of joint damage.
FAI can affect one or both hips. Bilateral cases are not uncommon, especially in individuals with congenital bone structure variations or those involved in sports requiring repetitive hip motion.
