Snapping Hip Syndrome
Snapping hip syndrome is a condition where a snapping or popping sensation occurs in the hip during movement. The sound may be audible and sometimes accompanied by pain. Snapping hip is often caused by a muscle or tendon moving over a bony structure in the hip. There are three main types:
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External Snapping Hip – When the iliotibial (IT) band or gluteus maximus tendon slides over the outside of the hip bone (greater trochanter).
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Internal Snapping Hip – When the iliopsoas tendon moves over the front of the hip joint or pelvic bone.
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Intra-articular Snapping Hip – Caused by problems inside the hip joint itself, such as a labral tear or loose cartilage.
This condition is common in athletes and dancers who perform repetitive hip movements, but it can affect anyone.
Diagnosis of Snapping Hip Syndrome
Snapping hip syndrome is typically diagnosed through:
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Medical history review (onset, activity level, aggravating movements).
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Physical exam — the provider may ask you to reproduce the snapping motion.
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Observation of movement to identify whether the snapping is internal, external, or intra-articular.
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Imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound to check for labral tears, bursitis, or tendon irritation.
Treatment for Snapping Hip Syndrome
Physical therapy is the primary treatment for snapping hip syndrome. It helps reduce irritation, strengthen supporting muscles, and restore normal movement. Treatment may include:
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Manual therapy to improve mobility and release tight muscles.
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Stretching exercises for hip flexors, IT band, and surrounding tissues.
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Strengthening programs targeting the glutes, hip stabilizers, and core.
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Postural correction and movement retraining to reduce repetitive strain.
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Pain management with ice, heat, or ultrasound therapy.
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Education on activity modification and safe return to sport.
In rare cases, surgery may be needed if conservative care fails and intra-articular damage (like a labral tear) is the cause.
Symptoms of Snapping Hip Syndrome
Common symptoms include:
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A snapping or popping sound when moving the hip, especially during walking, rising from a chair, or swinging the leg.
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A feeling of the hip “catching” or “clicking.”
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Pain or tenderness in the hip, particularly with repetitive activity.
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Weakness, stiffness, or limited range of motion (more common if associated with intra-articular problems).
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For many patients, snapping is painless at first but may become uncomfortable over time.
Prevention for Snapping Hip Syndrome
To prevent snapping hip syndrome or recurrence:
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Warm up before sports and stretching activities.
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Avoid repetitive hip motions without proper rest.
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Strengthen the glutes, hips, and core to stabilize the joint.
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Maintain flexibility in the hip flexors, hamstrings, and IT band.
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Use proper technique during athletic movements and exercises.
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Address hip tightness or pain early before it worsens.