Which structure is MOST associated with internal snapping hip, typically occurring around 45° of hip flexion with abduction and external rotation?

Which structure is MOST associated with internal snapping hip, typically occurring around 45° of hip flexion with abduction and external rotation?

• A. Iliopsoas tendon over the lesser trochanter
• B. Iliotibial band
• C. Acetabular labrum
• D. Iliofemoral ligament

Answer: (A)

Internal snapping hip happens when the iliopsoas tendon moves over a front-side hip structure as the hip flexes. The tendon travels forward and may catch and snap over the lesser trochanter, especially around mid-range hip flexion—about 45 degrees—when the hip is flexed with some abduction and external rotation. That motion makes the iliopsoas tendon glide over the bony edge and then slip back, producing the audible or palpable snap. The iliotibial band snapping over the greater trochanter refers to external snapping hip, not this internal pattern. The acetabular labrum is involved in intra-articular issues that can cause clicking or pain but typically not the classic external snapping at 45 degrees of hip flexion. The iliofemoral ligament is a major hip stabilizer and not a common source of snapping.

Internal snapping hip happens when the iliopsoas tendon moves over a front-side hip structure as the hip flexes. The tendon travels forward and may catch and snap over the lesser trochanter, especially around mid-range hip flexion—about 45 degrees—when the hip is flexed with some abduction and external rotation. That motion makes the iliopsoas tendon glide over the bony edge and then slip back, producing the audible or palpable snap.

The iliotibial band snapping over the greater trochanter refers to external snapping hip, not this internal pattern. The acetabular labrum is involved in intra-articular issues that can cause clicking or pain but typically not the classic external snapping at 45 degrees of hip flexion. The iliofemoral ligament is a major hip stabilizer and not a common source of snapping.