Differential Diagnosis for Hip Soreness after a Popping Sensation
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hip Flexor Strain: This is the most likely diagnosis given the mechanism of injury (a sudden popping sensation at the end of a swing) and the location of the pain (left side of the hip). A strain in the hip flexor muscles, such as the iliopsoas, can cause a snapping or popping sensation when the muscle or its tendon is stretched or torn.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Iliopsoas Tendinopathy: Inflammation or degeneration of the iliopsoas tendon can cause hip pain, especially with activities that involve hip flexion. The popping sensation could be due to the tendon moving over a bony prominence.
- Snapping Hip Syndrome (Coxa Saltans): This condition is characterized by a snapping sensation when the hip is flexed or extended, often due to the iliopsoas tendon or the iliotibial (IT) band moving over a bony prominence.
- Gluteal Strain: A strain in the gluteal muscles can cause pain on the side of the hip, and a popping sensation could occur if the muscle or its tendon is injured.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Hip Fracture: Although less likely, a hip fracture (such as a femoral neck fracture) could present with sudden onset hip pain after a traumatic event, even if it seems minor. This diagnosis is critical to rule out, especially in older adults or those with osteoporosis.
- Avulsion Fracture: An avulsion fracture occurs when a piece of bone is pulled off by a tendon or ligament. This could happen in the hip area and might cause a popping sensation followed by pain.
- Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE): In adolescents, a slipped capital femoral epiphysis is a condition where the ball at the upper end of the femur (thigh bone) slips out of place. It can cause hip pain and might be associated with a popping sensation.
Rare Diagnoses
- Intra-Articular Pathology (e.g., Labral Tear): Tears in the labrum, the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the hip joint, can cause hip pain and might be associated with a popping sensation, especially if the tear is large or the labrum is significantly damaged.
- Stress Fracture: A stress fracture in one of the bones around the hip could cause pain and might be preceded by a popping sensation if the fracture occurs suddenly.
- Tendon or Ligament Rupture: Complete rupture of a tendon or ligament around the hip can cause severe pain and instability, and might be associated with a popping sensation at the time of injury.