FAI - FA...WHAT????

In 2010 I talked to my Family Dr. about my ongoing pain in my right hip.  I was referred to one hip specialist then referred to orthopedic surgeon. (it was about a year wait to see this surgeon).  Finally in 2011 I had a diagnosis of FAI-cam type (Femoral Acetabular Impingement) of both left and right hip and Labral tear in the right hip.

Ok - now for an explanation what does the above picture mean?  Well in CAM type the femor head (where it makes connection in pelvis it is not shaped properly) therefore it doesn't allow a smooth movement in the hip socket, which often results in a labral tear as it gets caught up in the impingement.

After the diagnosis I was put on a waiting list for Arthoscopic surgery. (a video link to a similar surgery if you are interested http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgU_dOeQLQM.  My surgery would be covered through Health Canada, but it meant that I would wait 2.5 years for surgery.

Symptoms I experienced for years was: (mostly on the right side)

- constant pain both in rest and activity

- numbness all the way down right leg to toes

- limited mobility/movement without additional pain

- my right hip would often lock (get stuck) for a period of time which put pressure on my back as my back was forced to work somewhat like a hip (as my right hip wasn't doing its job in allowing fluid movement as I walked)

My Treatment included:

- biweekly chiropractic care biweekly, sometimes weekly.

- monthly massage therapy 

- regular physio-therapy

- NSAID's (aleeve or naproxen prescription)

- Ice, heat, rest

Despite my pain I remained active up until surgery.  I walked with my dog every day, went to the gym weekly (cardio, strength training and yoga) were all part of my regular routine.  I found that as time went on I did have to make more modifications in fitness classes that I attended.

Finally, after 2.5 years, my surgery was scheduled for Jan 13, 2014