Hip crepitus, the clicking, grinding, or popping sensation that some people feel in their hip, can be unsettling, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious structural issue.
New research from PhD candidate Fernanda Serighelli has shed light on how active adults with hip or groin pain interpret these sensations, and how this shapes their behaviour.
The study found that many participants were modifying or even avoiding physical activity because of hip crepitus, specifically hip flexion movements.
“This is concerning because exercise is a key treatment for hip and groin pain and avoiding it is not ideal for patients,” Fernanda says.
“Participants also said they were worried about the meaning of their crepitus and the future of their hip joint health, and many were interested in active treatments to reduce hip crepitus.”
Fernanda says the research highlights a need for educational interventions that address beliefs about crepitus and reduce fear or misinterpretation of symptoms.
“Understanding these beliefs can help clinicians identify and address unhelpful interpretations of crepitus and improve communication about this common condition.”
“It also generates insights into what health professionals could expect from these patients regarding hip crepitus, and how best to support them.”
