This condition is classified by a “snapping” sensation at the front or side of your hip joint, caused by a muscle or tendon moving over a bony structure of the joint. For some individuals this causes only the sensation of “snapping” without pain, but for others it can be painful and limit ability to perform activities of daily living or recreational activities.
Symptoms occur to the hip as the taut muscle structure moves across a bony prominence within your hip joint. This condition takes place most commonly in one of two locations: The front (anterior aspect) of your hip, or the side (lateral aspect). Along the front, the structure is called your iliopsoas tendon which connects to your upper inner thigh. As you lift and move your leg, you feel the tendon snap from one area to another. At the side, tightness in your iliotibial band causes it to “snap” across the greater trochanter (a bony prominence on your hip bone). Typically with this condition, only one area is involved.
