FAI Treatment Options

Nonoperative treatment is typically the first line of approach for FAI for all patients. Nonoperative measures aim to manage pain, increase hip joint range of motion, and improve overall function. In many instances, it may reduce the symptoms enough where surgery is not needed.

Lifestyle Modification

Lifestyle modification is a critical aspect of managing FAI nonoperatively. This usually involves activity modification to avoid movements that trigger hip pain, such as deep squatting or high-impact sports. Attention should be focused on low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, that promote fitness without worsening symptoms.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a mainstay of nonoperative treatment for FAI. A physical therapist will design a program to strengthen the muscles around the hip, thereby providing better support to the joint. Improving the flexibility and mobility of the hip joint is another crucial goal of therapy, which can restore function and reduce pain.

Medications and Injections

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage the pain and inflammation associated with FAI. If necessary, corticosteroid injections into the hip joint can offer temporary relief from pain and inflammation. However, they do not provide a long-term solution and should be used in combination with other treatments.

If nonoperative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, and the FAI is causing significant functional limitation or damage to the hip joint, surgical options may be necessary. Dr. Mayo performs hip FAI surgeries performed arthroscopically, a minimally invasive approach that involves small incisions around the hip and using a camera to visualize and perform the surgery within the joint.

Hip Arthroscopy for FAI

In an arthroscopic FAI surgery, your hip surgeon Dr. Mayo reshapes the hip bones to restore the normal anatomy and reduce the impingement. This can involve trimming the excess bone on the femoral head/neck (cam lesion) or acetabulum (pincer lesion), and repairing any associated labral tear. This surgery is suitable for patients with significant FAI who have failed conservative treatment, particularly active individuals aiming to return to high levels of physical activity.

After surgery, initial recovery involves rest and protecting the hip joint to allow the bones to heal. Patients then engage in a physical therapy program to restore strength and mobility. Full recovery and return to sport or strenuous activities can take three to six months. The success of the surgery can be influenced by various factors, including the severity of the FAI, the presence of any associated hip joint damage (such as a labral tear or early arthritis), and the patient’s commitment to the rehabilitation process.

Hip Arthroplasty

In cases where there’s significant damage to the hip joint or if the patient is older with lower activity demands, a hip arthroplasty (hip replacement) might be considered. This surgery involves replacing the damaged hip joint with artificial components. While this is a more extensive surgery, it can provide excellent pain relief and restore function in patients with severe hip joint damage.