A pathologic mechanical process that can lead to hip failure. It is caused by abnormalities of the acetabulum and/or femur combined with rigorous hip motion, leading to repetitive collisions that damage the soft tissue structures such as the labrum

Three main types of impingement exist. Pincer impingement occurs when a lesion(s) exists on the acetabulum. Cam impingement occurs when a lesion(s) exists on the femoro head. A Mixed impingement occurs when lesions exist on both the acetabulum and the femoro head.