Education Articles
Effective Non-Surgical Treatment of Hip Impingement
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition in which abnormal contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum leads to hip pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This condition is often classified into cam, pincer, or mixed-type impingement, depending on the shape abnormalities contributing to joint dysfunction. Pain patterns are highly variable in FAI, with some patients experiencing pain in their hip, while others experience pain in their groin or lower abdominal area. The pain from hip impingement can sometimes incorrectly be attributed to a sports hernia (damage to the muscle not visible on MRI), or osteitis pubis. FAI may also contribute to erectile dysfunction or bladder disorders in some patients. Osteoarthritis, which often manifests later in life, frequently begins with hip impingement in younger individuals.
A Modern Approach to Treating ACL Tears
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most important stabilizing structures in the knee, responsible for preventing excessive forward movement of the tibia (shin bone) relative to the femur (thigh bone) and controlling rotational stability. It plays a crucial role in activities that involve cutting, pivoting, jumping, and sudden directional changes, making it especially important for athletes and physically active individuals. When the ACL is torn, knee stability can become compromised, potentially leading to instability, pain, and difficulty with high-impact movements. However, recent research has challenged the long-standing assumption that all ACL tears require surgical reconstruction, showing that many patients can achieve full recovery with non-surgical treatment when properly managed.