Snapping hip syndrome can be categorized as external, internal or intra-articular. External and internal are often the result of increased tissue tension of specific muscles, whereas intra-articular can be a result of something more serious.   

External snapping hip is caused by the iliotibial band (thick tendinous structure the runs down the outside of the leg to the knee) rubbing and snapping over the greater trochanter.

Internal snapping hip syndrome is caused by the iliopsoas tendon rubbing and snapping over the bony prominence of the pelvic.    

Intra-articular snapping hip syndrome is caused by a tear in the labrum, or a loose body within the hip joint. This can also cause the hip joint to  ‘locked up’. 

Associated Symptoms:

• Audible ‘snapping/clicking’ from hip when walking, lifting leg, going from a seated to standing position.
• Pain with snapping/clicking
• Sensation of hip ‘locking-up’
• Hip/groin pain.