HIP IMPINGEMENT

Hip impingement occurs due to a similar mechanism to that described for labral tears above and the two can coexist. The difference in hip impingement is that there is a underlying problem with the shape of the hip joint that leads to the neck of the femur (thigh bone) coming into contact with the edge of the cup.

 

There are two main reasons this can happen. The first is more often seen in men and is called “Cam” impingement. This is when there is a bump of bone on the top and front of the neck that means that it comes into contact with the labrum and edge of the cup sooner than it normally would. This occurs more commonly in men due to the shape of their hip joint, particularly the head and neck. The other kind of hip impingement occurs when the acetabulum (cup or socket) is deeper than usual. Again, this means that contact occurs between the neck and the labrum or edge of the cup earlier that it otherwise would. 

 

In both of these situations, if this is causing pain and problems, the hip may need treatment which ranges from pain relief and physiotherapy up to surgery.