Today, hip problems are no longer only associated with older people. Over the past ten years, more and more young people from the teens on developed femoral acetabular impingement (FAI), warn US physicians from the Ohio State University (Columbus).
FAI occurs when the femoral ball no longer fits correctly into the hip socket. Many of the injuries are sports-related, especially in young people. "While it can happen in non-athletes and weekend warriors, we commonly see this condition in those who were year-round athletes before and during puberty", said Thomas Ellis from the University's Orthopaedic Department.
A critical phase of the hip growth takes place during puberty. Intensive sport activities can lead to abnormal growth and to FAI. "We suggest young athletes cross train in several activities to avoid overstressing the muscles that support the hip joint", said Ellis.
Diagnosis of FAI is not always easy, but important. If left untreated, it can lead to arthritis and the need for a hip joint replacement, said Ellis. But operations are not always required.
Univadis
