Hip Impingement and Workers' Compensation

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Hip impingement is a serious workplace injury that can significantly affect your daily life. This condition is common among truck drivers due to the nature of their work, and it can also occur in other physically demanding jobs. Knowing more about hip impingement and seeking help from a knowledgeable attorney is important.

What is Hip Impingement?

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the thighbone (femur) to the pelvis. Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), happens when the ball of the hip (femoral head) rubs against the socket (acetabulum) in a way that causes friction. This friction can damage the cartilage around the socket, leading to stiffness and pain in the hip. If it’s not treated, it can lead to arthritis or joint damage.

There are two main types of FAI:

1. Cam impingement: Where the femoral head is misshapen and doesn’t rotate smoothly in the socket.
2. Pincer impingement: Where the socket covers too much of the femoral head, causing pinching.

You can also have a combination of both types.

Causes of Hip Impingement/FAI

The exact cause of hip impingement is often unknown. In some people, the abnormal shape of the femoral head or socket is present from birth. In others, it develops over time. Jobs that involve a lot of twisting, bending, or squatting can lead to hip impingement. For example, a truck driver who frequently lifts his leg to get into the cab of his truck may develop hip impingement. This repetitive motion can cause or worsen the condition, making it eligible for a workers’ compensation claim.

Symptoms of Hip Impingement/FAI

Common symptoms include:

• Hip pain that gets worse with physical activity or after sitting for a long time.
• Limping.
• Stiffness in the groin or front of the thigh.

Diagnosis of Hip Impingement/FAI

Doctors diagnose hip impingement using several methods:

• Reviewing your medical history, including family history and activity levels.
• Conducting a physical exam to check your range of motion, muscle strength, and how you walk.
• Performing an impingement test where the doctor moves your knee to your chest and then toward the opposite shoulder.
• Using imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs to look at the bones and soft tissues of the hip.

Treatment of Hip Impingement/FAI

Treatment often starts with conservative methods such as rest and modifying your activities. Other treatments may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications.
• Epidural injections.
• Physical therapy.
• If the above treatments don’t relieve the pain, surgery may be necessary.

Workers’ Compensation for Hip Impingement/FAI

If your hip impingement is related to your job, you would be eligible for workers’ compensation. This covers your time off work, medical bills, and a settlement for your injury. Each case is unique, so it’s important to talk to an attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation claims. For a free and confidential consultation with an attorney, please contact us at any time.