The Common Vein Copyright 2008
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