Treatment for snapping hip syndrome typically begins with conservative approaches aimed at reducing discomfort and improving hip function. Rest and activity modification can help minimize irritation, especially for individuals whose symptoms are aggravated by repetitive movements. Stretching and strengthening exercises, often guided by a physical therapist, focus on improving flexibility in the hip flexors, iliotibial band, and surrounding muscles while enhancing core and gluteal strength to reduce strain on the hip. Applying ice and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation in cases where irritation is present.
If conservative treatments are ineffective and symptoms persist, additional interventions may be considered. Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation in irritated tendons or bursae, providing temporary relief. In cases where the snapping is caused by structural issues within the hip joint, such as labral tears or loose cartilage, imaging tests like MRI may be used to evaluate the damage. For severe or chronic cases that do not respond to non-invasive methods, surgical options—including tendon release, iliopsoas tendon lengthening, or arthroscopic procedures—may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the snapping. Most individuals, however, recover well with non-surgical treatments and are able to return to
normal activities without long-term complications.
