When is physiotherapy recommended for snapping hip syndrome?

Snapping hip syndrome, also called dancer's hip or coxa saltans, occurs when a tendon or other tissue moves over a nearby bony area. The sound or sensation may be painless, but repeated snapping can become sore or accompany weakness and reduced control. An examination helps distinguish this pattern from pain arising inside the joint.

A physiotherapist may assess hip strength, flexibility, walking, running, and the movements that trigger the snap. Exercises can target the hip muscles and trunk, while activity changes reduce repeated deep flexion, forceful kicking, or sudden increases in training. Stretching is selected carefully because pushing into the snapping movement may aggravate symptoms. See [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) for general treatment information.

Get prompt assessment after a fall or twist, or if the hip cannot bear weight, becomes hot and swollen, or pain is severe. Arrange review for groin pain, catching, giving way, night pain, or symptoms that do not settle with activity modification, since another hip problem may need investigation.

Ask which structure may be snapping, whether imaging is needed, which activities to modify, and how you will know that strengthening is improving control rather than increasing irritation.