A snapping sensation over the lateral hip during running is most likely caused by which structure?

• A. Iliopsoas
• B. Iliotibial band
• C. Acetabular labrum
• D. Iliofemoral ligament

Answer: (B)

Snapping over the lateral hip in runners almost always comes from the iliotibial band sliding over the greater trochanter as the leg moves. The IT band runs along the outside of the thigh and crosses the hip, so with repetitive hip flexion and extension during running it can snap back and forth over the bony bump, producing a palpable or audible snap on the outer hip. Other possibilities don’t fit this presentation as neatly: the iliopsoas snaps happen at the front of the hip during flexion, the acetabular labrum can cause internal mechanical catching with deep joint pain rather than a lateral hip snap, and the iliofemoral ligament isn’t a common source of a lateral snapping sensation. Therefore, the iliotibial band best explains a snapping sensation on the outside of the hip during running.