Causes And Symptoms Of Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping hip syndrome is also known as dancer's hip, coxa saltans, and iliopsoas tendinitis. The primary symptom of the ailment is a snapping of the hip joint when the patient extends or flexes it. While the condition is not usually serious for most individuals, it is an occupational hazard for dancers and other athletes, as it often interferes with their ability to perform.

Doctors divide snapping hip syndrome into three categories. The first category, internal snapping hip, develops as a tendon slips over bony structures located at the front of the hip, and patients with this type often experience pain while running and pain that worsens with activity. The second type of this condition, external snapping hip, occurs when either a muscle or a tendon slides over the top of the greater trochanter, located at the top of the femur. Patients with this type may struggle to climb stairs, and they may feel as though their hip is about to snap out of its socket. The third type occurs due to cartilage damage. Patients with this type may have severe and sudden pain, and they typically have a reduced range of motion in the affected hip.

The most common causes and symptoms associated with snapping hip syndrome are outlined below.

Snapping Or Popping Noise

The presence of a snapping or popping noise occurs in all types of snapping hip syndrome. These noises occur as a tendon or muscle creates tension slides over various parts of the hip. As this tension is released, patients will hear an audible snap, click, or pop. In many cases, the snapping sensation may produce discomfort or pain. Patients who notice this sensation should consult an orthopedist. They will be able to do certain maneuvers that can elicit the snapping, and this will help in determining the cause and potential type of snapping hip syndrome the patient may have. X-rays and imaging studies may be used to provide further information. To help reduce snapping, patients may need to alter their activity schedule and technique. For example, if a patient notices they are experiencing snapping while running or dancing, attention to technique or learning to perform the same movement using different muscles may help. Consulting a physical therapist, trainer, or sports medicine physician can help patients discover alternative methods of performing required movements.

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