Many young athletes and active adults experience nagging hip pain and dismiss it as overuse or aging. However, that pain could be something more: hip impingement.
“Hip impingement is a condition that we see quite a bit, but unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed until later in life,” says Dr. Matthew Lewis, the only surgeon on the Mississippi Gulf Coast offering hip arthroscopy. “The earlier we catch it, the better the long-term outcomes.”
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), occurs when there is abnormal contact between the ball-and-socket joint of the hip. Over time, this can lead to cartilage damage, pain, and even early-onset arthritis. Activities and sports that involve repetitive hip motion, such as soccer, basketball, football, and dance, may lead to development of symptoms from underlying FAI.
“Athletes in their teens, 20s, and 30s who experience persistent hip pain should absolutely get evaluated,” Dr. Lewis explains. “They may be great candidates for hip arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that can relieve pain and improve mobility.”
What Is Hip Arthroscopy?
Unlike traditional hip surgeries, hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive approach that allows surgeons to repair damaged cartilage, reshape the bone, and prevent further joint deterioration. This procedure offers a faster recovery time and helps patients get back to their active lifestyles pain-free.
Dr. Lewis breaks down the process here in this quick one-minute video.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you know is experiencing ongoing hip pain, don’t wait until it worsens. Dr. Lewis and the team at Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists are here to help you stay active and pain-free.
Your hip pain doesn’t have to define you! If you are living with hip pain and would like to learn more about Dr. Lewis or request an appointment, go to: https://bienvilleortho.com/physicians/matthew-w-lewis-md/
