Dr. Adolph Lombardi Jr.
Hip, Knee
Snapping Hip Syndrome
Live Without Limits Today! If you’re suffering from hip pain or a hip injury, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
What Our Patients Say
“As a new patient, I fortunately got a next day appointment. Was thorough and professional during the visit. I am confident that my hip surgery will be successful based on my experience.” — Keith L.
Snapping hip syndrome is a condition characterized by a snapping sensation or popping sound in the hip, particularly during hip movement. While it’s often painless, some people may experience discomfort or pain, especially if the condition worsens over time.
At JIS Orthopedics, with locations in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of hip-related conditions, including snapping hip syndrome. Contact our expert team for the help you’re looking for!
What is Snapping Hip Syndrome?
Snapping hip syndrome occurs when a tendon or muscle moves over a bone in the hip, causing a snapping or popping sensation. This can happen in different parts of the hip and may or may not be accompanied by pain. Although snapping hip is more common in athletes, dancers, and individuals who frequently use repetitive hip motions, it can affect anyone.
Where Does the Snapping Occur?
The snapping associated with this condition can happen in various areas of the hip. The three most common types of snapping hip syndrome include:
- External Snapping Hip Syndrome: This occurs when the iliotibial (IT) band or the gluteus maximus muscle snaps over the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the outside of the hip. This type is often felt on the outer hip and can be visible to others.
- Internal Snapping Hip Syndrome: This type occurs when the iliopsoas tendon, located on the front of the hip, slides over bony structures like the hip joint or pelvis. The snapping is usually felt at the front of the hip.
- Intra-articular Snapping Hip Syndrome: This type of snapping is caused by something inside the hip joint, such as cartilage tears, labral tears, or loose bodies. It’s the least common but often the most painful and often requires medical intervention.
Symptoms That Accompany Snapping Hip Syndrome
While the most obvious symptom is the snapping sensation itself, other symptoms may also develop depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition:
- Pain: Some individuals may experience sharp or dull pain, particularly after prolonged physical activity.
- Hip tightness: A feeling of stiffness or restricted motion in the hip can accompany the snapping.
- Swelling: In cases where inflammation is present, swelling may occur around the affected area.
- Weakness: Over time, muscle imbalances or tendon strain may lead to weakness in the affected leg.
If the snapping is persistent or causes pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Causes of Snapping Hip Syndrome
Snapping hip syndrome is usually caused by tight muscles or tendons. Athletes, dancers, and individuals who engage in activities involving repetitive hip movements are at higher risk. This risk is increased in young athletes who are experiencing growth spurts.
How is Snapping Hip Syndrome Identified?
To properly diagnose snapping hip syndrome, a healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to assess the location and severity of the snapping. Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended, such as:
- X-rays: These can rule out bone abnormalities or injuries.
- Ultrasound or MRI: These imaging techniques are useful for visualizing soft tissues like tendons and ligaments to identify tears, inflammation, or tightness.
A thorough diagnosis will help guide treatment and ensure you receive the right care.
Treatment and Home Remedies
Treatment for snapping hip syndrome depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Common treatment options include:
- Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help loosen tight muscles and improve hip stability.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
- Rest: Reducing physical activity can help minimize stress on the hip and allow the tissues to heal.
- Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can reduce swelling and pain.
In more severe cases, treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery may be required. In rare cases when conservative treatment does not help, SHS surgery may be recommended. If a labral tear is causing the snapping, hip arthroscopy may be recommended.
Can SHS Be Prevented?
While not all cases of snapping hip syndrome can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Warm-up properly: Before engaging in physical activity, perform dynamic stretches to warm up the hip muscles.
- Strengthen the hip muscles: Regular exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint can improve stability and reduce the likelihood of snapping.
- Maintain flexibility: Incorporate stretching into your routine to keep the hip muscles and tendons flexible.
Seeking Treatment for Snapping Hip Syndrome
If you are experiencing snapping hip syndrome and it’s affecting your daily activities, it’s important to seek professional care. At JIS Orthopedics, our specialists in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH, are experts in diagnosing and treating hip conditions, including snapping hip syndrome.
Contact us today to receive expert care for your hip health! Whether through physical therapy or advanced surgical options, we’re here to provide the highest level of care to get you back on your feet.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicholas Walla
See a Hip Arthritis Specialist Today!
If you are experiencing pain in your hip, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today. We have offices conveniently located in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH. Our hip specialists look forward to helping you relieve your pain and get back to doing what you love!
MEET OUR HIP SPECIALISTS
Dr. Keith Berend
Hip, Knee
Dr. Michael Morris
Hip, Knee
Dr. David Crawford
Hip, Knee
Dr. Zackary Byrd
Hip, Knee
Dr. Nicholas Walla
Sports Medicine
Dr. Alexander G. Athey
Hip, Knee
