Understanding Hip Impingement: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Do you feel a sharp pinch in your groin when you sit for too long or squat down? That deep, aching discomfort could be a sign of hip impingement, a common mechanical issue in the hip joint. 

When left untreated, this friction can wear down your joint and limit your daily activities.

At Peninsula Orthopedic Associates, our specialists help patients find relief from hip pain. We serve active individuals and families from our offices in Daly City, Menlo Park, and Los Gatos, California, with personalized orthopedic care.

What is hip impingement, and what causes it?

Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement, occurs when the bones of your hip joint don't fit together properly. Instead of gliding smoothly, the abnormally shaped bones rub against each other, creating irregular friction during movement.

This extra friction can erode the joint's protective cartilage and lead to painful labral tears, which affect the ring of cartilage that secures your hip socket. Over time, this constant wear and tear can cause lasting damage. 

In fact, research shows that adults diagnosed with hip impingement have an 81% risk of developing hip osteoarthritis within a decade.

Recognizing the symptoms of hip impingement

The most common symptom of hip impingement is a dull ache or sharp pain in the groin area, especially after athletic activities, prolonged sitting, or bending forward. You might also experience stiffness in your thigh or hip, or a clicking sensation when you move the joint.

Many people mistake these symptoms for a simple groin strain, but persistent discomfort that doesn't improve with rest deserves a professional evaluation. Catching these signs early is key to protecting your long-term joint health.

What are your treatment options?

Fortunately, you have several highly effective options for managing this condition and protecting your hip joint. We always explore conservative, nonsurgical therapies first to help you regain comfortable movement.

Starting with a structured physical therapy regimen is often the best first step. A study from the National Institutes of Health found that structured physical therapy provides significant symptom relief for roughly 60% of patients, allowing them to avoid surgery for at least two years.

If conservative treatments don't provide enough relief, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery may be the path forward. This advanced procedure allows us to reshape the hip bones and repair any torn cartilage through tiny incisions, helping you return to the activities you love.

You don't have to let hip pain keep you on the sidelines. Our experienced team is here to help you understand your options and build a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient Bay Area locations.