At The Jersey Sports & Spinal Clinic, we base our treatment decisions on the latest research and clinical guidelines. Over the past few years, this has led us to move away from certain exercises that were once considered standard—like the “clam.”

While the clam was traditionally used to help strengthen the hip, current evidence suggests it may not be the best option for many people, especially those with Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS). So if your rehab plan still includes it, it might be worth having a conversation about whether it’s really the right fit for you.

Here’s why we rarely prescribe clams anymore—especially for FAI-related issues:

1. It Can Aggravate the Front of the Hip

FAI typically involves a pinching at the front of the hip, especially during movements like hip flexion, abduction, and external rotation. The clam combines all three, which can actually increase pressure on the irritated area and worsen symptoms in some patients.

2. It May Add Unwanted Compression

Rather than offloading the hip, the clam can place extra tension on the psoas tendon and compress the front of the joint. This can irritate already-sensitive structures—something we aim to avoid in a thoughtful rehab plan.

3. It Doesn’t Target the Right Muscles

Although it’s often used to activate the glutes, the clam doesn’t effectively work the parts of the gluteus medius and minimus that are most often weakened in hip conditions like FAIS. Instead, it tends to recruit other muscles like the upper glute max and sartorius, which may not address the root issue.

4. It Can Trigger Symptoms

Movements that involve bringing the knee above the hip or repeated external rotation can flare up symptoms in people with FAI. Unfortunately, the clam fits this pattern. That’s why many clinicians are now rethinking its place in rehab plans for hip impingement.

5. It Misses the Areas That Need Strengthening

In cases of FAI, the most common areas of weakness are in the anterior and middle parts of the gluteus medius and minimus—not the posterior portion the clam targets. So even with good intentions, this exercise might not be hitting the mark.

We don’t want to suggest that every clinic should work the same way. But we do believe it’s important to ask: Is this exercise the most effective option, and is it supported by the best available evidence?

At The Jersey Sports & Spinal Clinic, our goal is always to provide rehab that’s up-to-date, personalised, and focused on getting you moving with confidence. If you’re unsure about any part of your rehab plan—or if you feel like progress has stalled—we’re always happy to take a fresh look.

Sometimes a small change can make a big difference. Book today with one of our physiotherapists.