Snapping Hip Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Physiotherapy Treatment
Snapping hip syndrome, also known as coxa saltans, is a condition characterised by a clicking, popping, or snapping sensation in the hip during movement. This phenomenon occurs when a tendon or muscle moves over a bony prominence in the hip, creating the snapping sound. Although it can be painless, some individuals may experience discomfort or even pain, especially when engaging in physical activities. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we specialise in diagnosing and managing snapping hip syndrome to help you regain mobility and reduce any associated symptoms.
What Causes Snapping Hip Syndrome?
There are three main types of snapping hip syndrome, each with different underlying causes:
External Snapping Hip: This type occurs when the iliotibial (IT) band or gluteus maximus tendon snaps over the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the side of the hip. It is common in runners, cyclists, and individuals who perform repetitive hip flexion and extension.
Internal Snapping Hip: This form is caused by the iliopsoas tendon snapping over the pelvic bones or the femoral head. It is often associated with activities involving repeated hip flexion, such as dancing, martial arts, or weightlifting.
Intra-articular Snapping Hip: Less common, this type involves a structural issue within the hip joint, such as a labral tear, loose cartilage, or bone fragments. These conditions may cause pain and require more in-depth assessment.
Symptoms of Snapping Hip Syndrome
The primary symptom is a snapping or clicking sensation in the hip, which may or may not be accompanied by pain. Other symptoms include:
Hip Pain: Pain can be felt on the outside or front of the hip and may worsen with specific movements, such as climbing stairs, running, or standing up from a seated position.
Stiffness or Weakness: The hip may feel stiff, making it challenging to perform certain activities. In some cases, muscle weakness may also be present.
Reduced Range of Motion: Repeated snapping or pain may limit hip mobility over time.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for managing snapping hip syndrome by addressing the root cause of the problem and alleviating symptoms. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we focus on:
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and stretching can help reduce muscle tightness and improve hip flexibility.
Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises are designed to strengthen the hip, core, and surrounding muscles, providing better support and stability for the joint.
Activity Modification: Advice on modifying activities or training techniques can help reduce repetitive stress on the hip and prevent symptom recurrence.
Postural and Biomechanical Assessment: Addressing any underlying postural issues or movement patterns that contribute to snapping hip syndrome can aid in long-term recovery.
Conclusion
Snapping hip syndrome can be bothersome, especially for active individuals, but physiotherapy offers effective solutions for managing symptoms and restoring function. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we tailor treatment programs to suit your specific needs, helping you get back to your favourite activities pain-free. If you’re experiencing hip snapping or discomfort, contact us today to start your journey to recovery
