Start with understanding
FAI syndrome is a motion-related hip problem assessed using symptoms, examination, and imaging together. Hip bone shape alone does not establish this diagnosis.
Hip or groin discomfort with certain positions can interrupt sitting, squatting, or sport. That pattern deserves an explanation rather than assuming every pinching sensation has the same cause.
Video coming soon
Explore the written guide and illustrated lessons below.
Connect understanding to daily life
Connect the picture to the symptoms
Cam and pincer describe aspects of hip shape. A clinician should consider whether the image fits the painful movements and examination, while assessing other causes of groin or hip pain. Repeatedly forcing a provocative position is not a useful way to prove the diagnosis yourself.
Discuss the purpose of rehabilitation
Activity changes and physical therapy can be considered to manage symptoms and improve function. Exercise does not reshape a bony prominence. Ask which movements can be adapted, what strength or function goals matter, and how the response will be reviewed.
Keep the treatment decision individual
A trial in specialist-referred patients found better eight-month function with arthroscopy than with its physiotherapy comparison. That does not make surgery the next step for every person with a cam-shaped hip. Discuss the symptom impact, prior care, other joint conditions, risks, and your priorities. Sudden severe hip pain, a hot joint with fever, or inability to bear weight after trauma needs urgent assessment.
Bring the movement that matters
Show the team where hip discomfort changes your day, such as getting into a car or reaching a depth needed at work. Ask for a clear reason behind any temporary modification and a way to review it. The goal is informed participation in your plan, not collecting restrictions without knowing their purpose.
Educational information complements individual guidance. Your health history, goals, and examination determine appropriate care.
Build your understanding
Five ideas to build your understanding. Swipe, use the arrows, or focus the slides and use your keyboard.
Does a cam finding mean I have FAI syndrome?
No. Clinical symptoms and examination must also fit.
Can stretching remove impingement?
It does not reshape bone. Ask which movement or strength work is appropriate and avoid forcing a painful range in an attempt to change anatomy.
What the evidence means for you
Nonsurgical care has a defined role
AAOS outlines activity changes and physical therapy among options considered for symptomatic FAI.
Put it to use: Ask what your initial plan aims to improve and when reassessment is appropriate.
Keep in mind: The guide does not determine whether an anatomical finding is responsible for your symptoms.
AAOS OrthoInfo · patient guidance →Arthroscopy improved function in selected symptomatic patients
A trial of 222 specialist-referred adults found better eight-month daily-activity scores with arthroscopy than its physiotherapy program.
Put it to use: If symptoms persist, discuss comparative benefits and risks with a hip specialist.
Keep in mind: The trial excluded established osteoarthritis and dysplasia and does not justify surgery for an asymptomatic shape finding.
BMJ · randomized clinical trial →