Lived Experiences and Health Care Perspectives of People With Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies.

Abstract

<b>OBJECTIVE:</b> To describe the lived experiences and health care perspectives of people with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome to help guide patient-centered care. <b>DESIGN:</b> Preregistered (CRD42024581726) systematic review of qualitative studies followed the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statements. <b>LITERATURE SEARCH:</b> Embase, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to June 24, 2024, using key subject and free-text terms, updated on November 8, 2024. <b>STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA:</b> We included English-language qualitative and mixed-methods studies that explored the experiences, beliefs, attitudes, perspectives, and/or needs of individuals aged ≥12 years with FAI syndrome. Studies with ≥5 participants were included; there were no publication date restrictions. We used the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) qualitative and mixed-methods checklist to assess methodological quality. <b>DATA SYNTHESIS:</b> We conducted a hybrid framework and thematic synthesis using the Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation. Certainty of findings was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation - Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) framework. <b>RESULTS:</b> Eight studies (4 qualitative, 4 mixed-methods) with 409 participants were included. Four key themes were identified: (1) physical and psychosocial effects of FAI syndrome and its care, (2) preference for surgery based on pathoanatomical and biomechanical beliefs, (3) unmet needs and expectations, and (4) varied perceptions of physical therapy. <b>CONCLUSION:</b> This review highlighted the physical and psychosocial impacts of FAI syndrome. Patient education and support may be valuable to set realistic treatment expectations and improve surgical and nonsurgical treatment outcomes. <i>J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2026;56(7):413-426. Epub 7 October 2025. doi:10.2519/jospt.2025.13404</i>.