Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping hip syndrome is characterized by an audible snapping sound, often accompanied by pain, that occurs during hip flexion and extension during exercise or daily activities. Snapping hip can be caused by:

• Iliopsoas impingement against the iliopectineal eminence or femoral head (internal extra-articular snapping hip).

• Cartilage damage or acetabular labral tears (internal intra-articular snapping hip).

• Impingement of the iliotibial band or gluteus maximus against the greater trochanter (external snapping hip).

The primary goal of the physician is to determine the cause and treat patients with symptomatic snapping hip so they can return to their activities or peak athletic performance. Most cases of snapping hip can be managed conservatively.

However, surgical intervention may be necessary if the condition becomes chronically symptomatic. Hip arthroscopy can be beneficial in treating intra-articular causes of snapping hip syndrome.