Radiographic parameters of hip joints in the course of femoroacetabular impingement in people practising recreational long-distance running

Introduction Changes in hip joint morphology include distortions, deformities, or abnormalities in the anatomy that can affect its function and cause pain. Femoroacetabular impingement is one of them. Frequent running may increase the risk of this condition; regular feet hitting against the ground at each running step can lead to significant strain on hip joints. Aim of the research The aim of the study was to assess the effect of a conservative 6-month therapeutic intervention on changes in the values of selected radiographic parameters of hip joints in people practising recreational long-distance running. Material and methods The study included 44 men, aged 30 to 50 years, who regularly practised recreational long-distance running. Diagnosis of femoroacetabular impingement was made based on X-ray examination of hip joints in A-P and axial views with measurements of the width of the hip joint space laterally (JSW_L) and centrally (JSW_C), of the OS INSPACE distance, and of the alpha, beta, and Wiberg angles. Results and conclusions Analysis of variables showed statistically significant intergroup differences in values of the central joint space width (JSW_C), OS INSPACE distance, and alpha (A_ANG) and beta (B_ANG) angles in the measurements both before and after the intervention. Statistically significant differences in the measured values of X-ray parameters between the two examinations were noted only in the affected limb in the experimental group. An increase in the OS INSPACE distance (p < 0.05), a decrease in the alpha angle (A_ANG) (p < 0.001), and an increase in the beta angle (B_ANG) (p < 0.05) were shown.