Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Guide to Diagnosis in Primary Care

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) has been a diagnosis for approximately a decade in the medical field. Although FAI was once considered uncommon, it is now documented as 1 of the most common hip disorders. FAI is a variance or overgrowth within the femoral head neck space, acetabular ring, labrum, or cartilage. Patients with FAI frequently present in a general practice setting and endure months of pain and physical therapy before a correct diagnosis is ascertained. Understanding FAI and appropriate treatment and diagnostic procedures will facilitate early diagnosis in the primary care setting, providing the best chance for patient recovery.