At Thrive Body Clinic, we strive to empower our patients with the knowledge they need to take control of their health. One condition that many of our patients encounter, often without even realizing it, is Snapping Hip Syndrome. This blog post will delve into what Snapping Hip Syndrome is, its common causes and symptoms, how it can be treated, and importantly, how osteopathy can play a vital role in managing this condition.

What is Snapping Hip Syndrome?

Snapping Hip Syndrome, also known as coxa saltans, is a condition characterized by a snapping or clicking sensation in the hip when it is moved, particularly during activities like walking, running, or getting up from a seated position. While this sensation is often painless, it can sometimes be accompanied by discomfort or even pain, which can interfere with daily activities.

There are three main types of Snapping Hip Syndrome, each related to different anatomical structures:

1. External Snapping Hip Syndrome: This occurs when the iliotibial band (IT band) or gluteus maximus tendon snaps over the greater trochanter of the femur (the bony prominence on the outer side of the hip). This type is the most common and is often experienced by runners, dancers, and athletes.
2. Internal Snapping Hip Syndrome: This type happens when the iliopsoas tendon snaps over bony structures in the pelvis, such as the iliopectineal eminence or the femoral head. Internal snapping is typically felt as a deep click or clunk in the front of the hip.
3. Intra-articular Snapping Hip Syndrome: This less common form is due to issues within the hip joint itself, such as a labral tear or loose bodies within the joint. It can be more challenging to diagnose and often requires imaging studies for confirmation.

Common Causes of Snapping Hip Syndrome

Understanding the root causes of Snapping Hip Syndrome is crucial for effective treatment. The syndrome can arise from various factors, often related to the overuse or misalignment of muscles and tendons around the hip joint. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Overuse and Repetitive Motion: Athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive activities, such as running, cycling, or dancing, are more prone to developing Snapping Hip Syndrome. The repetitive movement can lead to the tightening and thickening of tendons, increasing the likelihood of them snapping over bony structures.
2. Muscle Imbalances: Imbalances in the muscles around the hip can contribute to the development of Snapping Hip Syndrome. For instance, if the hip flexors (muscles in the front of the hip) are significantly stronger or tighter than the hip extensors (muscles in the back), it can cause the tendons to become misaligned.
3. Anatomical Variations: Some individuals may have anatomical differences, such as a naturally tight iliotibial band or a slightly larger bony prominence on the femur, making them more susceptible to this condition.
4. Hip Joint Issues: In cases of intra-articular snapping hip, underlying problems within the hip joint, such as labral tears, loose bodies, or cartilage damage, can lead to snapping sensations.
5. Poor Posture and Biomechanics: Improper posture or biomechanics during activities like walking or exercising can place undue stress on the hip tendons, contributing to the development of this syndrome.

Symptoms of Snapping Hip Syndrome

The most distinctive symptom of Snapping Hip Syndrome is the audible or palpable snapping sensation when the hip is moved. This can be alarming, but it’s essential to understand the other symptoms that may accompany this condition:

1. Snapping Sensation: A popping, snapping, or clicking sound or feeling in the hip during movement, particularly when bending the hip, standing up, or swinging the leg.
2. Pain or Discomfort: While many people with Snapping Hip Syndrome experience no pain, others may feel discomfort or even sharp pain around the hip, especially after prolonged activity.
3. Swelling or Tenderness: In some cases, inflammation can occur, leading to swelling or tenderness around the affected area.
4. Weakness in the Hip: If the condition progresses without treatment, it can lead to muscle weakness in the hip, making it difficult to perform everyday activities.
5. Limited Range of Motion: Some individuals may notice a reduced range of motion in the hip, making it challenging to perform tasks that require full hip movement.

How Osteopathy Can Help with Snapping Hip Syndrome

At Thrive Body Clinic, we take a holistic approach to treating Snapping Hip Syndrome, with osteopathy playing a central role in our treatment strategies. Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and how it interacts with the rest of the body. Here’s how osteopathy can help:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: An osteopath will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the root cause of your Snapping Hip Syndrome. This may involve examining your posture, gait, and the range of motion of your hip, as well as identifying any muscle imbalances or areas of tension.
2. Manual Therapy Techniques: Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to relieve tension in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the hip. These techniques can help reduce the snapping sensation by improving the alignment and movement of tissues.
3. Improving Biomechanics: Through osteopathic treatment, we can help correct biomechanical issues that contribute to Snapping Hip Syndrome. This might involve adjustments to your posture or advice on how to modify certain activities to reduce stress on the hip.
4. Exercise Prescription: Osteopaths can design a customized exercise program tailored to your specific needs. These exercises will focus on strengthening the hip muscles, improving flexibility, and preventing future episodes of snapping.
5. Holistic Approach: Osteopathy doesn’t just focus on the symptoms but looks at the whole body. We may address other areas that could be contributing to the hip problem, such as the lower back, pelvis, or knees, to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan.

Conclusion

Snapping Hip Syndrome can be a bothersome condition, but with the right approach, it is manageable. At Thrive Body Clinic, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our osteopathic treatments are designed to get to the root of the problem, providing relief from pain and discomfort while promoting long-term hip health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of Snapping Hip Syndrome, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an assessment. Together, we can help you get back to moving freely and living fully.