Skip to main content

Hip Joint "Popping"


Medically reviewed by

Question

I notice that my hip joint pops a lot more than it used to. Should I be concerned?

Answer

A feeling of painless joint "popping" is not terribly worrisome and can be normal for an individual. In major joints like the hip, knee or shoulder, an increase in popping can be a sign of weakness in the surrounding musculature, and well-directed strengthening could help stabilize and maintain the health of the joint.

If the "popping" is painful, or has a grinding element to it, that could signify loose tissue in the joint and should be evaluated by a physician.

Explore related topics

Meet our care team

Joshua C. Richards, M.D.
Orthopedic SurgeryHand Surgery

Related questions

View all questions
  • I had full hip replacement surgery last year (left side) and it worked well. However, my right hip is now hurting. How can I lose weight effectively without irritating the bad hip?

  • I had an X-ray and MRI on my right knee for severe pain. The radiologist said there was an ACL tear, but my doctor attributed it to arthritis. I don't have swelling and the pain is intermittent. If it were arthritis, wouldn't I have other symptoms?

  • What's the fastest way to recover from Achilles tendonitis? I have a case of insertional tendonitis, and it's been six weeks since I've been able to run. I'd like to get back to my activities.

  • I have fractured my ankle multiple times. Do you have any suggestions for exercises that would strengthen this area?

  • I have a bunion on my large toe that becomes painful and swollen, especially when I wear high heels. What caused this, and how can I fix it?

You're leaving our site

The website you have selected is an external one located on another server. This website may contain links to third party sites. These links are provided for convenience purposes and are not under the control of Sutter Health. Do you wish to continue?