Snapping Hip

What is snapping hip?

Snapping hip is a condition often seen in dancers which results in a snapping noise and feeling around the hip joint. This can either be lateral or internal. Lateral snapping hip is caused by the muscle fibres of Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) flicking across the greater trochanter (bony protrusion on the upper part of the femur (thigh bone). Internal snapping hip is caused by the Iliopsoas muscle as it flips across the Iliopectineal eminence (front part of the pelvis).

Symptoms of snapping hip include:

• A feeling of snapping or clicking on the outside of the hip (lateral snapping hip)
• A feeling of snapping or clicking at the front of the hip (internal snapping hip)
• Sometimes a snapping noise can be heard
• This is not usually painful

What can the athlete do about snapping hip?

• Rest may help, but not always
• Stretch the muscles around the thigh and hip
• Visit a sports injury specialist
• Get a coach to check your technique

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• Myofascial release techniques to any surrounding tight muscles
• Prescribe pelvic stability exercises
• Occasionally surgical release may be required