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 external (lateral) or internal.

Lateral snapping hip is felt at the outside of the hip and is caused by the muscle fibres of Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) or Gluteus Maximus flicking across the greater trochanter (bony protrusion on the upper part of the femur (thigh bone). The clicking feeling is usually not painful.

Internal snapping hip is caused by the Iliopsoas muscle as it flips across the Iliopectineal eminence (front part of the pelvis). This form is more likely to produce pain.

Symptoms of snapping hip include:

• A feeling of snapping or clicking on the outside of the hip (external snapping hip)
• A feeling of snapping or clicking at the front of the hip (internal snapping hip)
• Sometimes a snapping noise can be heard
• Pain is more likely in internal cases, although may occasionally occur in external cases.

What can the athlete do?

• 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