Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a common cause of hip pain in young adults. It can occur due to thickening of the femoral neck (CAM deformity), bony overgrowth of the edge of the acetabular socket (Pincer deformity) or both.

These bony deformities lead to conflict between bone and soft tissues. The repetitive conflicts can injure the joint cartilage, tear the labrum that surrounds the socket and over time this damage can lead to hip arthritis.

Most people with FAI describe a sharp, catching pain in the groin especially when twisting or flexing their hip right up. Over time, the hip joint can become stiff so you're less able to bend or rotate it.

Over time the groin pain can become more of a dull ache.

Your GP, physiotherapist or specialist can diagnose FAI by asking about your injury and examining your hip.

The diagnosis of FAI can be made on x-rays and they are important for planning management but most patients also need an MRI. The MRI shows whether you have a tear in the labrum, cartilage damage or early arthritis.

FAI is most commonly treated and resolved non-surgically. As a result, surgeons will often suggest non-surgical interventions be carried out prior to undertaking a surgical course of action.