Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping hip syndrome is a condition characterized by a snapping sensation or clicking sound in the hip when it is bent or straightened. The snapping sensation generally occurs as a muscle or tendon moves over a bony protrusion in the hip area. A snapping hip is usually just a minor annoyance, but it can sometimes lead to bursitis, which is a painful swelling of a fluid-filled sac that cushions the hip joint.

Here at YourOrthoSolution, we have extensive experience and specialize in treating snapping hip and want to help you start the healing process as quickly as possible to get you on the path to recovery. Our caring team always goes that extra step to make you feel like part of our family. By working with you and customizing your entire treatment and rehabilitation process, you will understand everything you want to know about your condition, giving you the best chance for recovering completely, with no recurring issues.

Cause

Snapping hip syndrome is most often the result of tightness in the muscles and tendons surrounding the hip, leading them to “snap” over bony protuberances. Several ligaments and muscles in the hip area can be the source of the snapping. The most common site is along the outside of the hip where the iliotibial band moves over the greater trochanter of the femur (thighbone).

People who participate in activities that require repeated bending at the hip are most likely to develop snapping hip syndrome. Dancing is an excellent example of this type of activity. Young athletes are particularly vulnerable to this condition, as the muscles around the hip often become tight during adolescent growth spurts.

Less commonly, snapping hip syndrome is due to damage to cartilage deep inside the hip joint. The labrum, which is a type of cartilage that surrounds the “socket” of the hip joint (the acetabulum), can tear and cause a snapping sensation or clicking sound. A tear in the articular cartilage that lines the acetabulum or the “ball” of the hip joint (the femoral head) may also cause a snapping hip.

Symptoms

Snapping or popping typically occurs when the hip is moved, as when walking, getting up from a chair, or swinging your leg around. It usually causes little or no pain unless bursitis develops.

When snapping hip syndrome is due to a cartilage problem within the knee, it can cause a great deal of pain. Locking of the knee may also occur if a piece of torn cartilage breaks free and enters the joint as a loose body.

Treatment

Nonsurgical

Nonsurgical approaches are the primary ways to treat snapping hip syndrome. They include:

• Activity modification – such as avoiding or reducing activities that cause symptoms
• Ice or other cold therapy
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy – especially stretching exercise to reduce tightness of the muscles and tendons
• Corticosteroid injections – especially bursal injections if bursitis is present

Surgical

In those rare instances when snapping hip syndrome does not respond to nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be recommended. This would be most commonly needed for a snapping hip due to torn cartilage. The cartilage can usually be repaired or removed during hip arthroscopy. Less commonly, “open” surgery, with a larger incision, is required.

At YourOrthoSolution, all of our doctors and staff are committed to ensuring that you not only receive the best orthopedic care in the area but also have an exceptional experience during each visit to our locations. Our dedicated staff will handle all insurance processes for you. You can expect to be in a friendly atmosphere and receive top orthopedic treatment to help you return to full mobility as quickly as possible.