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Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a condition that affects the hip joint, causing abnormal contact between the femur and the acetabulum (hip socket). Over time, this irregular interaction can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and joint damage, including labral tears and early-onset osteoarthritis. At RAD Clinics, we offer comprehensive femoroacetabular impingement treatment, including advanced ultrasound-guided FAI injection therapies such as steroid injections to alleviate inflammation and restore mobility.

Causes of Femoroacetabular Impingement

FAI is typically caused by structural abnormalities in the hip joint that develop during growth. These abnormalities may result from genetic predisposition or repetitive stress on the hip, particularly in athletes or individuals involved in high-impact sports such as football, cycling, or dancing. Addressing these structural issues early is essential for effective FAI hip impingement management.

Symptoms of Femoroacetabular Impingement

Hip pain, particularly in the groin or side of the hip
Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or physical activity
Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip
Clicking, locking, or catching sensation in the hip joint

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may benefit from targeted femoroacetabular impingement treatment at RAD Clinics.

Anatomy of the Hip Joint

The hip joint functions as a ball-and-socket structure, with the femoral head fitting into the acetabulum of the pelvis. It allows for dynamic movement, aided by cartilage, ligaments, and the labrum, a protective cartilage ring. In FAI hip impingement, the ball and socket do not align properly, causing friction, pain, and restricted motion.

Types of FAI

Cam Impingement: This occurs when the femoral head is not perfectly round, leading to jamming against the acetabulum during hip movement.
Pincer Impingement: When the acetabulum is overly deep or covers too much of the femoral head, causing the two bones to abnormally contact.
Combined Cam and Pincer: Many individuals have both types of impingement.

Diagnosis of Femoroacetabular Impingement

At RAD Clinics, we employ a thorough diagnostic process for FAI that may include:

Physical Examination: Your clinician will assess your range of motion and perform specific tests to identify the source of hip pain.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, and CT scans are used to confirm the presence of structural abnormalities and to evaluate the extent of joint damage or labral tears.
Ultrasound: Used both for diagnosis and for guiding FAI injection procedures to ensure precise delivery of treatment.

Cortisone Injections for Femoroacetabular Impingement

Ultrasound-guided steroid injection for femoroacetabular impingement is a highly effective, non-surgical solution offered at RAD Clinics. This minimally invasive treatment delivers corticosteroids directly to the inflamed tissues, providing fast and lasting relief.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

Precise Delivery: The use of ultrasound allows for exact placement of the steroid injection into the affected area, minimising the risk of complications and maximising treatment efficacy.
Pain Relief: The steroid helps to reduce inflammation, easing pain and improving mobility in the affected joint.
Non-Invasive Option:
Offers a non-surgical alternative for femoroacetabular impingement treatment.
Rapid Recovery: Many patients report significant improvement within days following an FAI injection.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Pre-Procedure Consultation: Your clinician will review your medical history and explain the details of the ultrasound-guided steroid injection.
Ultrasound Imaging: Using advanced ultrasound technology, the clinician will locate the precise area where the injection is needed.
Local Anaesthetic: A local anaesthetic is applied to numb the injection site.
Steroid Injection: A steroid injection for femoroacetabular impingement is delivered under ultrasound guidance.
Post-Procedure: The entire procedure typically takes around 30 minutes, and you will be monitored for a brief period before being able to return home.

When to Seek Treatment

You should seek expert care for FAI hip impingement if:

Your hip pain is persistent or worsening, especially after physical activity.
You experience a reduced range of motion or stiffness in your hip.
Conservative treatments, such as physiotherapy or over-the-counter pain medication, are not providing relief.

At RAD Clinics, our specialists offer precise, image-guided femoroacetabular impingement treatment that can help preserve joint health and improve quality of life.

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Exceptional professional service, highly recommended for quick, efficient, and friendly ultrasound scans and injections. Instant relief, thorough analysis, and personalized treatment at reasonable prices.

DISCLAIMER

We do not accept insurance coverage. If you wish to reimburse your fees, then please kindly check with your insurance provider prior to booking as we cannot be held responsible for any non-payments.