Snapping Hip Syndrome and Iliopsoas Tendinitis
What is Snapping Hip Syndrome and Iliopsoas Tendinitis?
Snapping hip syndrome describes a palpable or audible snapping sensation around the hip that occurs with movement. It is common in athletes and dancers and can be classified into three types based on the cause:
• External snapping hip: the iliotibial band or gluteus maximus tendon snaps over the greater trochanter. This is the most common form.
• Internal snapping hip: the iliopsoas tendon snaps over the iliopectineal eminence or the femoral head. This is often associated with iliopsoas tendinitis.
• Intra-articular snapping hip: caused by pathology within the hip joint itself, such as a labral tear, loose body or cartilage flap.
Symptoms of Snapping Hip Syndrome and Iliopsoas Tendinitis
Symptoms may include:
Treatment options
Treatment might include surgical and nonsurgical treatments:
Non-surgical treatment: most patients respond well to activity modification, stretching and strengthening physiotherapy focused on the affected tendon, anti-inflammatory medications and image-guided injections (corticosteroid around the iliopsoas or trochanteric bursa).
Surgery: is considered only after failure of a comprehensive non-operative program. Options include arthroscopic or endoscopic iliopsoas tendon release for internal snapping hip, iliotibial band lengthening for external snapping hip, and hip arthroscopy to address intra-articular pathology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Hip arthritis usually develops over time rather than from a single cause. The most common reason is gradual wear of the joint cartilage with age. However, many people develop it earlier due to subtle issues with the shape of the hip, when the ball and socket don’t fit perfectly, it creates uneven pressure that slowly damages the joint. Previous injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can also speed up this process. In some cases, genetics, inflammation, or increased load on the joint (including higher body weight or repetitive stress) contribute.
