Understanding Hip Pain: Functional Anterior Hip Impingement
Hip pain is a common complaint that can affect people of all ages, from athletes to office workers. One of the lesser-known but significant causes of hip discomfort is Functional Anterior Hip Impingement (FAHI). This condition occurs when the front of the hip joint becomes compressed due to poor movement patterns, muscle imbalances, or altered biomechanics. Left untreated, FAHI can lead to chronic pain and limit daily activities or athletic performance.
What is Functional Anterior Hip Impingement?
FAHI differs from structural impingement (such as Femoroacetabular Impingement, or FAI) because it is not caused by bone abnormalities but rather by dysfunctional movement patterns. In FAHI, excessive anterior glide of the femoral head within the hip socket leads to pinching of the soft tissues at the front of the hip. This often results from poor postural control, muscular imbalances, or repetitive activities that reinforce faulty hip mechanics.
Common Symptoms of FAHI
Pain or discomfort at the front of the hip or groin, especially during activities like squatting, running, or prolonged sitting. With the symptoms very often occuring in the front of hip or groin this injuey can often be mistaken for an inguinal hernia or adductor injury.
A feeling of tightness or pinching when bringing the knee toward the chest
Weakness or instability in the hip, affecting overall movement efficiency
Limited hip flexion range of motion
Contributing Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of FAHI, including:
Tight and or weak Glutes and Core: When the gluteal muscles and core are weak, the hip flexors become overactive, pulling the femoral head forward in the socket.
Tight and or weak Hip Flexors: Prolonged sitting or repetitive hip flexion activities (such as cycling or sprinting) can cause tight hip flexors, further exacerbating the impingement.
Poor Movement Mechanics: Faulty squat patterns, excessive anterior pelvic tilt, or lack of hip control during dynamic movements can all lead to FAHI.
Previous Injuries: Past injuries to the hip, pelvis, or lower back can alter movement patterns and contribute to dysfunctional loading of the hip joint.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Addressing FAHI requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on mobility, strength, and movement retraining. Here are some effective strategies:
The Role of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments can play a crucial role in managing FAHI by restoring proper joint mobility and function. Specific adjustments to the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip joint can help correct misalignments that contribute to altered biomechanics and impingement. Additionally, chiropractors use soft tissue techniques, such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy, to alleviate muscle tension and improve hip mobility.
Furthermore, chiropractic care often includes personalized rehabilitation exercises aimed at strengthening weak muscles, improving movement patterns, and preventing future episodes of hip pain. By addressing both structural and functional issues, chiropractic treatments can significantly enhance recovery and support long-term hip health.
1. Improve Hip Mobility
Stretch and release tight muscles.
Perform posterior hip capsule chiropractic adjustments and mobilizations to encourage proper femoral head positioning
2. Strengthen the Posterior Chain
Activate and strengthen the glutes with exercises such as bridges, hip thrusts, and Romanian deadlifts
Strengthen the deep core muscles to improve pelvic control and stability
Strengthen the hip flexors to encourage posterior translation of the femoral head in the acetabulum (N.B. If this is not done with proper pelvic alignment and core control these exercises could serve to further worsen you problem)
3. Retrain Movement Patterns
Practice proper squat mechanics, ensuring the hips sit back rather than shifting excessively forward
Use controlled lunges and step-ups to reinforce good hip alignment and engagement
4. Modify Activities and Posture
Avoid excessive anterior pelvic tilt by maintaining a neutral spine in daily activities
Adjust training volume and intensity to prevent overuse and further irritation of the hip joint
When to Seek Professional Help
If hip pain persists despite self-care efforts, consulting a chiropractor can help identify the root cause and provide tailored rehabilitation strategies. Manual therapy, joint mobilization, and corrective exercises can be highly effective in managing FAHI and restoring optimal hip function.