Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) and Physiotherapy

Overview

This Embodia course provides a comprehensive clinical update on femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), a key contributor to hip pain, labral pathology, and early osteoarthritis - particularly in active and athletic populations.

Led by an expert in hip arthroscopy and sports medicine, the course explores the evolving understanding of FAI, including its history, biomechanics, diagnosis, and management. Clinicians will gain clarity on the differences between CAM and pincer impingement, how these structural variations impact joint health, and their implications for both surgical and non-surgical care.

With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice, this course highlights the critical role of physiotherapy in assessment, patient education, and treatment planning, while also addressing current gaps in public information and ongoing research questions in FAI management.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and its clinical presentation
2. Differentiate between CAM, pincer, and mixed types of FAI
3. Understand the biomechanics and pathophysiology underlying FAI
4. Identify risk factors and populations commonly affected, including athletes
5. Interpret current evidence related to FAI and osteoarthritis progression
6. Recognize indications for surgical vs. conservative management
7. Apply physiotherapy principles to support assessment, education, and rehabilitation

Audience

This course is designed for:

• Physiotherapists
• Chiropractors
• Sports medicine clinicians
• Orthopedic clinicians
• Rehabilitation professionals working with active populations

It is particularly relevant for clinicians treating hip and groin pain, as well as those working with athletes or post-surgical populations.

Why This Course Matters

FAI is increasingly recognized, but often misunderstood. This course helps clinicians navigate the complexity with clarity and confidence.

• Improve diagnostic accuracy: Understand the structural and mechanical drivers of hip pain
• Support better outcomes: Tailor treatment based on FAI subtype and patient presentation
• Enhance patient education: Address misinformation with clear, evidence-based guidance
• Collaborate effectively: Strengthen communication between physiotherapists and surgeons
• Stay current: Keep up with rapidly evolving research and clinical approaches

By deepening your understanding of FAI, you can make more informed decisions and provide more targeted, effective care.

Please note: There were some connection issues during the recording of this webinar and therefore there are some awkward jumps between subjects. We did our best to edit this in a way that makes it understandable and enjoyable to watch.