DANCER’S HIP

COMMON TERMS

dancers hip, dancer’s hip, jumpers hip, jumper’s hip, snapping hip syndrome

TECHNICAL TERMS

iliopsoas bursitis, iliopectineal bursitis, hip bursitis, iliopsoas syndrome

WHAT IT IS

Inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) in the front of the hip, beneath the iliopsoas muscle.

SYMPTOMS

• Pain in the front of the hip/groin, often deep.
• Worse with hip flexion (lifting leg, getting in car, climbing stairs).
• Sharp pain, then dull ache.
• Clicking, snapping, or popping sensation at the hip.
  Stiffness, weakness, reduced range of motion

CAUSE

• Repetitive Motion: Running, cycling, squatting, walking.
• Sudden Activity Increase: Overuse or aggressive rehab after hip surgery.
• Muscle Imbalance: Tight hip flexors or weak hip muscles.
• Hip Issues: Hip joint instability, labral tears, or hip replacement irritation.

TREATMENT

Conservative Treatment

• Rest: Avoid activities that involve repetitive hip flexion or, such as running or excessive stair climbing.
• Ice: Apply ice packs to the anterior hip area for 15-20 minutes every 6-8 hours to reduce inflammation.
• Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A critical component for long-term relief, focusing on stretching the hip flexors and strengthening the surrounding hip muscles.
• Activity Modification: Using walking aids (e.g., a cane) can temporarily reduce pressure on the bursa.

Medical Interventions

• Corticosteroid Injections: If pain persists, ultrasound-guided injection of a corticosteroid into the bursa can provide significant relief.
• Aspiration: If the bursa is severely swollen, ultrasound-guided aspiration may be performed.