Snapping Hip Syndrome Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Snapping Hip Syndrome Overview Snapping hip syndrome (SHS) is a clinical condition characterised by an audible or palpable snapping sensation that is felt or heard in the hip during movement.Snapping: This can occur in different areas of the hip (the outer part of the hip (internal SHS) or the region where the ball of the thigh bone (femur) connects with the pelvic socket (external SHS)); the tendons or muscles slide over bony areas in the hip, causing a ‘snapping’ or ‘popping’ sensation. Causes The underlying cause of SHS depends on the type of SHS that patients have. Internal SHS occurs due to one or more of the following causes:The iliopsoas tendon (which connects the muscles in the inner hip to the femur) slides over the pelvic bone.The thigh muscle (quadriceps) slides over the ball of the femur.External SHS occurs when the band of thick fibrous tissue that traverses the outside of the thigh from the hip down to the knee (the iliotibial band) slides over the top of the femur. Risk Factors Tightness in the muscles and tendons surrounding the hip: This can cause friction, leading to snapping.Sports and/or intense physical activities: Engaging in sports or activities that involve repetitive bending at the hip, such as dancing or cycling, can increase the risk of developing this condition.Trauma to the hip joint/hip joint cartilage injuries.Presence of broken fragments of bones/tissues, which are lodged within the ball-and-socket joint of the hip. Symptoms Pain, inflammation, and/or swelling of the hipA sensation of ‘instability’ in the hip jointWeakness in the leg musclesDifficulties in performing regular physical activities that involve the use of the legs Diagnosis Collection of medical history and detailed evaluation of symptomsPhysical examinations to ascertain hip mobilityDiagnostic imaging tests (X-ray and/or MRI): these tests enable the specialists to get a clear view of the hip joint and help them rule out other hip conditions (hip arthritis/synovitis or tumours) Treatment Non-surgical treatmentRest and ice: Reducing activity and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain.NSAIDs: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain and swelling.Activity modification: Adjusting exercises or sports activities, such as reducing cycling or swimming with only arm movement, can prevent further strain on the hip.Surgical treatmentHip arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using a camera to remove or repair damaged tissue causing the snapping.Open surgery: If necessary, a more invasive surgery may be done to directly repair the hip joint.Post-surgical treatmentAfter the surgery, proper physical therapy for strengthening the hip muscles is usually recommended. It helps enhance mobility, and gradually ease the patients back into their daily activities.