Hip · Trenton, MI
Hip Impingement (FAI)
Physical therapy for hip impingement (fai) at Total Body Rehab — evaluation-driven, one-on-one care in Trenton, serving all of Downriver.
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a mismatch between the ball and socket of the hip — extra bone on one, the other, or both — that pinches tissue at the depths of certain movements, especially deep flexion and rotation.
It's common in athletes and active adults, and rehab focused on strength and movement strategy resolves symptoms for many people without surgery.
Common signs & symptoms
- Pinching groin pain with deep squats or long sitting
- Pain with hip rotation — pivoting, getting out of a car
- A 'C-sign': cupping the hip with your hand to describe the pain
- Stiffness in deep flexion
- Aching after sports or gym sessions
How physical therapy helps
We can't reshape bone, but we can change everything else: strengthening the glutes and deep rotators so the joint is better controlled, adjusting squat depth and stance to your anatomy, mobilizing what's genuinely stiff, and grading you back to sport. Many patients return to full training with a smarter movement strategy.
Treatments we use
- Hip stability strengthening
- Movement-strategy coaching
- Manual therapy
- Sport-specific progression
- Post-arthroscopy rehab
Frequently asked questions
Do I need surgery for hip impingement?
Not necessarily. Trials comparing rehab and arthroscopy show many patients do well either way. A genuine course of targeted rehab first is a reasonable, evidence-supported path — and we'll be honest if you're not progressing.
Should I stop squatting?
Usually you just need to squat differently — width, depth, and stance tailored to your hip's anatomy. Elimination is rarely required.
What if I've already had hip arthroscopy?
We provide structured post-surgical rehab coordinated with your surgeon — protection, progressive loading, and a criteria-based return to sport.
This page is general education, not a diagnosis. For advice about your specific situation, schedule an evaluation or talk with your physician.