Snapping Hip Syndrome

Charles Allison MD

Definition

Snapping hip syndrome is a symptom and or sign characterized by an audible snapping sound caused by one of a few mechanical aberrances in and around the hip. There are internal causes that include abnormalities such as the iliopsoas tendon moving over iliopectineal eminence, acetabular labral tear, and intra-articular loose body. There are external causes that include ilio-tibial band moving over the greater trochanter, and by the gluteus maximus

These mechanical abnormalities result in a painful or painless hip snapping precipitated by activity

The diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, while imaging by US may show abnormal tendon movement. MRI may show trochanteric bursitis.

Treatment is with physical therapy and NSAIDs

References

EMedicine: Snapping Hip Syndrome, Joseph Garry; Jun 15, 2006