Exploring the role of microinstability of the hip: an atypical presentation of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and labral tear in a collegiate endurance athlete: a case report.

OBJECTIVE: This case is designed to aid practitioners in understanding the potential role of hip microinstability as a possible underlying source of hip pain and dysfunction. CASE
PRESENTATION: A 25-year-old female collegiate cross-country athlete presented with a 2-year history of progressive left hip and groin pain. Extensive clinical examination and imaging confirmed the presence of cam-type femoroacetabular impingement, a labral tear and gluteal tendinopathy. Despite multiple intra and extra-articular pathologies, understanding the role of hip instability and implementing a rehabilitation exercise program focused on hip joint centration alleviated the patient's symptoms at rest and during activity.
SUMMARY: A robust history and physical exam of the hip is essential with the addition of imaging when testing criteria is positive. Clinicians should be aware of the role hip microinstability plays and its clinical implications when in the presence of other contributing factors such as generalized joint laxity, and/or intra-articular pathology. © JCCA 2019.