Advanced Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

femoroacetabular impingement

Pronunciation: FEM-or-oh-as-eh-TAB-u-lar im-PINJ-ment

Abnormal contact between the femoral head and acetabulum causing hip pain and limited motion in athletes.

Full Definition

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) occurs when there is abnormal contact between the femoral head and acetabular rim during hip motion, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential labral damage. Two main types exist: cam impingement (caused by an aspherical femoral head) and pincer impingement (due to acetabular overcoverage). FAI is increasingly recognized as a cause of hip pain in young athletes, particularly those involved in sports requiring repetitive hip flexion and rotation. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent progression to osteoarthritis.

Usage

Usage note: Specify type when known (cam, pincer, or mixed type FAI).

In Context

"The athlete's groin pain was attributed to femoroacetabular impingement confirmed on specialized imaging." — Sports medicine consultation
"Arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement allowed the dancer to return to full performance." — Surgical outcome report

Also known as

FAI hip impingement syndrome

Contrasted with

normal hip mechanics unrestricted hip motion

Don't confuse with

hip dysplasia labral tear hip flexor strain

exertional rhabdomyolysis ← Back to glossary Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome