Hip pathology is common amongst athletes and the general population.
The mechanics of cycling have the potential to exacerbate symptomatic hip pathology and progress articular pathology in riders with morphologic risk factors such as femoroacetabular impingement.
A objective professional fit using the 3DWear IMUs to the individual which aims to optimize hip joint function allowing persons with hip pathology to exercise in comfort when alternative high impact exercise such as running
may not be possible.
Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), occurs when there is abnormal contact between the bones in the hip joint, specifically between the femoral head (the ball of the thigh bone) and the acetabulum (the socket in the pelvis). This can cause damage to the cartilage and other structures in the hip joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
There are two main types of hip impingement:
1. Cam impingement: The femoral head is irregularly shaped, often like a ball that doesn’t fit properly in the socket. This can cause friction and damage to the cartilage.
2. Pincer impingement: The acetabulum (hip socket) is deeper or overhanging, which can lead to excessive contact with the femoral head.
Symptoms of Hip Impingement:
Pain: Often felt in the groin, hip, or outer thigh area. The pain may worsen with activities like squatting, twisting, or prolonged sitting.
Stiffness: Limited range of motion in the hip joint, especially with bending or rotating the leg.
Clicking or catching: You might feel a sensation of the hip joint catching or clicking when moving.
Causes:
Abnormal hip structure: Genetic or developmental changes that affect the shape of the bones.
Repetitive stress or injury: Certain activities, especially sports that involve repetitive hip motions (e.g., cycling, football, or dancing), can increase the risk of hip impingement.
Age and wear: As people age, the cartilage in the hip joint can degrade, increasing the likelihood of impingement.
Treatment:
Treatment for hip impingement may vary depending on the severity and symptoms:
Conservative: Physical therapy may improve strength and flexibility, as well as anti-inflammatory medications and activity modifications to reduce stress on the hip.
Surgical: In cases where conservative treatments don’t relieve symptoms, surgery may be necessary to reshape the bones or repair damaged cartilage.
Its important to consult a skilled healthcare professional that understand cycling for proper diagnosis and treatment if you suspect hip impingement.
Conversely improper fit of the bicycle can lead to hip symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals who present with risk factors for hip pain. Accordingly a dynamic bike fit using IMUs on the sacrum can form part of the overall management strategy in a cyclist with hip symptoms.
Hip pathomechanics with respect to cycling needs objective findings over subjective concepts. Bicycle fitting methodology and modern options optimize hip mechanics during pedaling
Our 3DWear sensors can track what can’t be seen lke hip impingement.
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