Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) & Hip-Related Groin Pain: Physiotherapy Assessment & Rehabilitation
Hip and groin pain can limit sport, daily activity, and long-term joint health. At Fit 2 Function Allied Health, we provide evidence-based physiotherapy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and hip-related groin pain, helping you understand your injury, guide safe movement, and return to activity with confidence.
This page explains what FAI is, how it is diagnosed, and how modern physiotherapy can help manage symptoms and optimise hip function.
What is Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)?
FAI occurs when the bones of the hip joint are shaped in a way that reduces clearance during movement. This can lead to:
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Hip and groin pain, often felt at the front of the hip
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Pain with deep hip flexion, pivoting, or prolonged sitting
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Stiffness or catching sensations in the hip
There are two main types:
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Cam: extra bone on the femoral head
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Pincer: extra bone on the acetabulum (hip socket)
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Many patients have a mixed pattern
FAI can increase the risk of labral tears and cartilage injury if left unmanaged.
How is FAI diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves:
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Detailed history of symptoms
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Physical examination focusing on hip movement and pain patterns
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Imaging if needed:
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X-ray: to assess bony shape
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MRI / MR Arthrogram: to assess labrum and cartilage if symptoms persist
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Physiotherapy assessment often identifies movement patterns that aggravate the hip and guides the initial management approach.
Physiotherapy management of FAI and hip-related groin pain
Our approach focuses on active, evidence-based strategies rather than rest alone.
Key physiotherapy strategies:
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Movement optimisation: modifying aggravating positions
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Strengthening: glutes, hip stabilisers, core
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Mobility work: controlled hip range of motion
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Load management: graduated activity exposure
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Education: understanding triggers, safe exercise, and posture strategies
For some patients with persistent labral symptoms, referral to an orthopaedic specialist may be appropriate. Regardless, rehabilitation remains essential for optimal outcomes.
Return to sport and activity
Return is guided by objective criteria, not just time. This includes:
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Strength and symmetry of hip and lower limb muscles
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Quality of movement during sport-specific drills
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Pain and symptom response to progressive loading
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Confidence and psychological readiness
With structured rehab, many people with FAI can return to high-level sport and daily activity without surgery.
Book a hip and groin assessment
If you experience hip or groin pain, our physiotherapists can assess your hip, identify contributing factors, and design a personalised rehabilitation plan.
Learn more about hip & groin injuries & physiotherapy
Explore our other shoulder condition pages to understand evidence-based assessment, rehabilitation, and return-to-activity strategies:
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) & Hip-Related Groin Pain | Gluteal Tendinopathy (Lateral Hip Pain) | Adductor-Related Groin Pain | Hip Osteoarthritis | Hip Labral Tears
Our physiotherapists provide individualised programs focused on restoring movement, strength, and long-term hip and groin health.
