What is it?

Snapping iliopsoas tendon is when the iliopsoas tendon moves over the bony prominence of the hip socket as the hip moves from a ‘frog leg’ position to being extended. This clicking is so common that it may be considered normal, particularly in dancers. However, it is not normal for this clicking to be painful. Pain and inflammation (with or without clicking) of the psoas tendon may also occur with other hip conditions such as as femoral acetabular impingement (FAI) and developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) or following surgery such as hip arthoscopy or total hip replacement.

Diagnosis

After discussing your symptoms, the specialist can confirm a diagnosis using ultrasound. An X-Ray and MRI are also usually performed to exclude other hip conditions.

Treatment

Some people can live with mild symptoms or benefit from stretching programmes. In some cases, you may be offered an ultrasound guided steroid injection into the tendon, which can help to relieve pain. In severe cases, surgical release of the tendon either using arthoscopy or through a small incision may be the only effective option.

Important: This information is only a guideline to help you understand your treatment and what to expect. Every person is different and your rehabilitation may be quicker or slower than other people’s. Please contact us for advice if you are worried about any aspect of your health or recovery.