Crepitus, the medical term for a hip grinding or catching sensation when walking, describes any audible noise or palpable sensation—such as popping, clicking, or grinding—that originates from a joint during movement. While the noise is not always indicative of a serious problem, it signals friction or irregularity within the hip joint or surrounding soft tissues. Identifying the specific cause of this friction is the first step toward finding appropriate relief.
Common Reasons for Hip Crepitus
A frequent cause of grinding or snapping is Snapping Hip Syndrome (coxa saltans), which involves tendons or muscles moving over bony prominences. The internal type occurs when the iliopsoas tendon slides over the iliopectineal eminence at the front of the hip joint. The external form involves the iliotibial band or the gluteus maximus tendon snapping over the greater trochanter, the bony knob on the side of the upper thigh bone. This action creates tension and a sudden release, resulting in the distinct grinding or popping sensation.
Another primary cause is the gradual deterioration of the joint surfaces, most commonly Osteoarthritis (OA). In OA, the smooth articular cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears away, leading to friction that manifests as crepitus, pain, and limited range of motion. This bone-on-bone friction is often felt deep within the hip joint and may worsen with prolonged activity. The grinding noise signals irregularity in the joint’s movement mechanics.
Structural issues within the hip socket can also produce a grinding or clicking noise, often termed intra-articular crepitus. A labral tear, a disruption of the fibrocartilaginous rim that seals the hip socket, is a common culprit. The torn labrum can catch during movement, leading to a locking, clicking, or catching sensation, often accompanied by groin pain. Additionally, tiny fragments of bone or cartilage, known as loose bodies, can float within the joint fluid and interrupt normal motion, contributing to the grinding sensation.
Immediate Self-Care and Activity Modification
For temporary relief, a period of rest from the aggravating activity is recommended. Applying ice to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day can help reduce localized inflammation and pain, particularly if the grinding is new or associated with a recent increase in activity. This approach helps calm down irritated tendons or bursae around the hip joint.
Activity modification involves identifying and avoiding specific movements that reliably trigger the grinding or snapping sensation, such as deep squats, lunges, or sudden pivoting motions. For individuals who participate in activities like running or cycling, temporarily reducing the intensity or modifying the exercise, such as cross-training with low-impact options, can reduce stress on the inflamed tissues.
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can manage pain and reduce inflammation in the short term. These medications block the production of substances that cause swelling and pain. However, use these only as directed and not as a long-term solution without consulting a healthcare professional.
Medical Evaluation and Treatment Options
A medical evaluation should be sought if the grinding sensation is accompanied by severe pain, causes the joint to lock or catch, or makes bearing weight difficult. Persistent symptoms that do not improve after several weeks of rest and activity modification also warrant professional attention. During the initial visit, a physician will perform a physical examination to test the hip’s range of motion and may attempt to reproduce the snapping sensation to pinpoint the source.
Diagnostic tools often begin with X-rays to assess bony structures for signs of osteoarthritis or structural abnormalities like femoroacetabular impingement. If soft tissue injury is suspected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or an ultrasound may be utilized to visualize tendons, the labrum, and the bursa. In some cases, a diagnostic injection of a local anesthetic can help confirm the source of the pain.
Non-surgical professional treatment primarily centers on physical therapy (PT) to strengthen the muscles that support the hip, which reduces joint stress during movement. PT focuses on improving flexibility, correcting muscle imbalances, and strengthening the core and hip abductors. For persistent pain related to inflammation, a corticosteroid injection into the bursa or joint space may provide targeted relief. In rare instances where non-surgical methods fail, or for conditions like severe labral tears or advanced OA, surgical options such as hip arthroscopy may be considered to repair or trim damaged tissue.