Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping can occur in different areas of the hip:

• Internal SHS occurs when tendons and muscles in the front part of the hip slide over bony structures.
• External SHS occurs when the iliotibial (IT) band slides over the top of  femur (thigh bone).

SHS may show one or more of the following symptoms:

• There  may be pain, swelling, or inflammation in the hip.
• A sensation of ‘instability’ in the hip joint.
• Weakness in the leg muscles.
• Difficulties in performing regular physical activities that involve the use of the legs.

SHS has the following causes: 

• In internal SHS, the iliopsoas tendon or thigh muscles slide over the pelvic bone or femoral head.
• In external SHS, the IT band rubs over the outer part of the femur.
   

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing SHS.

• Tight muscles or tendons around the hip increase friction and snapping.
• Repetitive physical activities, such as dancing, cycling, or running, place extra strain on the hip.
• Previous trauma to the hip joint or cartilage injuries make snapping more likely.
• Loose fragments of bones or tissues within the hip joint can also trigger snapping.

Doctors use the following methods to diagnose SHS:

• A detailed medical history helps identify the onset and patterns of symptoms.
• A physical examinations assess hip movement and reduces the snapping sound.
• Imaging tests, such as X-ray or MRI, help rule out other hip problems, such as arthritis, synovitis, or tumours.

Based on the severity of symptoms, one or more of the following treatment approaches may be recommended:

• Non-surgical treatments:
  • Rest
  • Application of ice packs to help reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and swelling.
  • Activity modification, such as reducing cycling or swimming with only arm movement, can prevent further strain on the hip.
• Surgical treatments:
  • Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure using a camera to remove or repair damaged tissue causing the snapping.
  • Open surgery is a more invasive and may be done to directly repair the hip joint.
• Post-surgical treatment usually includes physiotherapy to strengthen hip muscles, improve mobility, and support safe return to daily and sporting activities.

It is important to seek medical advice if:

• The snapping is painful, persistent, or interferes with daily activities.
• There is swelling, weakness, or limited mobility of the hip.
• The symptoms worsen despite rest and simple home treatments.

While SHS cannot always be prevented, certain measures reduce the risk.

• Stretching and strengthening exercises help keep hip muscles flexible.
• A gradual increase in sports training or workouts reduces strain.
• Maintaining good posture during physical activities helps protect the hip.
• Using proper techniques in sports and physical training decreases unnecessary stress on the joint.

• An orthopaedic doctor for diagnosis and treatment planning.
• A sports medicine specialist for activity modification and preventive strategies.
• A physiotherapist for rehabilitation and guided exercises.