“My hip snaps/pops all the time….is something wrong…should I get a scan?” – this is a common question I receive from clients. What is often referred to as “Snapping hip syndrome” is far more common than you would think.

What happens in this instance?

Mechanically speaking internal snapping hip syndrome stems from the iliopsoas tendon moving over a bony prominence called the iliopectineal eminence. External snapping hip syndrome arises when a lateral structure such as a glute max tendon or the Iliotibial band catches on the greater trochanter

Why is it happening?

This could be caused by a variety of factors including soft tissue extensibility, biomechanics during the aggravating action

When does it happen?

It often occurs when moving the hip from a flexed (bent) to and extended (straight) position.

Does it matter?

Unless the snapping event is associated with pain it is unlikely to be a cause for concern. However, if a painful snap is occurring this should be examined to out rule an underlying labral pathology. In addition to an underlying pathology, repeated snapping episodes can sometimes predispose to hip bursitis symptoms.

Who is likely to be affected?

-deep squatters

– dancers

– gymnasts

– runners

Take home message:

A non-painful hip pop/snap sensation when moving the hip through it’s range is a totally normal phenomenon. There are treatments and exercises that can be done to reduce the frequency of snapping episodes. However, if repeated snapping is causing irritation or you have concern about an underlying labral pathology you should seek and in depth hip examination by one of our Physiotherapists

Alison Molamphy

Physiotherapist