What is Snapping Hip Syndrome?

Snapping Hip Syndrome (also called “coxa saltans”) is a condition where you hear or feel a snapping, popping, or clicking sensation around the hip joint when moving. While it can be painless for some, others may experience discomfort, tightness, or even pain with activity.

This condition is common among:

• Athletes and dancers

• People with hypermobility

• Individuals who perform repetitive hip motions (running, cycling, kicking, yoga, etc.)

Causes of Snapping Hip Syndrome

There are a few different reasons snapping may occur:

1. External Snapping Hip

   • Caused when the iliotibial band (IT band) or gluteus maximus tendon slides over the greater trochanter (the outer hip bone).

   • Often felt as a “snap” on the outside of the hip.

2. Internal Snapping Hip

   • Happens when the iliopsoas tendon (hip flexor) slides over structures at the front of the hip joint.

   • Felt more in the groin or front of the hip.

3. Intra-articular Snapping Hip

   • Less common, but can be due to cartilage tears, labral tears, or loose fragments in the hip joint.

   • Often accompanied by deeper pain and may need further imaging.

Symptoms

• Audible snapping or clicking when walking, running, or standing up

• A feeling of the hip “catching”

• Tightness in the hip or groin

• Discomfort or pain during activity (especially repetitive motions)

• In some cases, hip bursitis from chronic friction

Treatment Options

Most cases of snapping hip syndrome can be managed without surgery. At Well Co Chiropractic, our Sarasota-based care focuses on:

1. Soft Tissue Treatment

   • Myofascial release or Active Release Technique (ART) to reduce tension in the hip flexors, IT band, and glutes and improve joint mobility

2. Chiropractic Care

   • Gentle adjustments for pelvic or lumbar alignment

   • Improving hip range of motion while avoiding excessive strain

3. Exercise & Rehab

   • Stretching tight hip flexors, hamstrings, and glutes

   • Strengthening core and hip stabilizers to improve joint control

   • Correcting movement patterns to reduce friction

4. Activity Modification & Pacing

   • Identifying repetitive triggers (running mileage, cycling posture, yoga poses)

   • Adjusting training volume to allow healing

5. Referral When Needed

   • If snapping is due to a labral tear or other intra-articular issue, we coordinate with orthopedic specialists in Sarasota for imaging and advanced care.

Living in Sarasota With Snapping Hip Syndrome

Because Sarasota is such an active community, with tennis, golf, running, and yoga being part of many residents’ routines, hip health is crucial. The good news is that with proper treatment and strengthening, most people return to full activity without ongoing pain.

Think you may have snapping hip syndrome? Book your appointment at Well Co Chiropractic today.