Snapping Iliotibial Band: Causes, Symptoms, and Physiotherapy Treatment
Snapping iliotibial band, also known as external snapping hip syndrome, occurs when the iliotibial (IT) band, a thick band of connective tissue running down the outside of the thigh, snaps over the greater trochanter (a bony prominence on the outer side of the hip). This snapping sensation can be heard or felt during hip movements, especially when the hip is flexed and extended. While the condition is often painless, it can cause discomfort, irritation, or even pain in some cases. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we specialise in assessing and treating snapping iliotibial band to help alleviate symptoms and restore normal hip function.
What Causes Snapping Iliotibial Band?
Several factors can contribute to the development of a snapping iliotibial band, including:
Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve frequent hip flexion and extension, such as running, cycling, or dancing, can place stress on the IT band, making it more prone to snapping over the greater trochanter.
Tightness in the IT Band or Hip Muscles: Tight muscles, particularly the IT band itself or the gluteus maximus, can cause increased friction as the band moves over the bony prominence, leading to the snapping sensation.
Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or imbalances in the hip and thigh muscles can affect the movement mechanics of the hip joint, increasing the likelihood of IT band snapping.
Structural Factors: Anatomical variations, such as a prominent greater trochanter or leg length discrepancies, may make some individuals more susceptible to this condition.
Symptoms of Snapping Iliotibial Band
The primary symptom is a snapping or clicking sensation felt on the outer side of the hip when moving the leg, particularly during activities such as walking, running, or getting up from a seated position. Other symptoms may include:
Hip Pain or Discomfort: Some people experience pain or tenderness on the outside of the hip, especially after prolonged activity.
Irritation or Inflammation: Repetitive snapping may cause irritation or inflammation of the IT band or surrounding tissues.
Stiffness in the Hip: Tightness or stiffness may be felt around the hip, making certain movements challenging.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is an effective approach for managing snapping iliotibial band by addressing the underlying causes and alleviating symptoms. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our treatment approach focuses on:
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation, massage, and stretching can help reduce IT band tightness and alleviate irritation.
Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to strengthen the hip, thigh, and core muscles can improve stability and reduce excessive strain on the IT band.
Stretching and Flexibility Training: A customised stretching program can help improve flexibility and prevent the recurrence of snapping.
Activity Modification and Biomechanical Assessment: We provide advice on modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms and perform assessments to correct any biomechanical issues contributing to the condition.
Conclusion
Snapping iliotibial band can be a bothersome condition, particularly for active individuals, but physiotherapy offers effective solutions to manage symptoms and restore function. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we create personalised treatment plans to help you recover and return to your activities pain-free. If you’re experiencing hip snapping or discomfort, contact us today to start your journey to recovery.
