Iliopsoas impingement

Iliopsoas impingement or tendinopathy is a painful condition that occurs when the iliopsoas muscle, which is the primary hip flexor, or its tendon rub abnormally against the edge of the hip socket or the components of a hip replacement. Rarely, it also can occur in patients with no prior hip replacement or surgery.

For active people, this persistent friction causes inflammation and tendinitis, resulting in a deep, aching groin pain, weakness, and sometimes a catching or snapping sensation when lifting the leg, climbing stairs or getting out of a chair. Impingement can severely limit mobility and daily activities, making it a common reason patients seek care with Mayo Clinic's Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team.

Our team of clinicians works hard through research to find answers for better surgical techniques and treatments, such as arthroscopic lengthening, to alleviate pain and restore function for patients with this complex issue.

Conditions treated

Treating iliopsoas impingement and tendinitis can prevent chronic groin pain, improve hip mobility and optimize clinical outcomes, particularly for patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty.

Conditions treated include:

  • Iliopsoas impingement.
  • Iliopsoas tendinitis.
  • Iliopsoas tendinopathy.
  • Postarthroplasty anterior groin pain.
  • Snapping hip syndrome, also called coxa saltans.

Faculty members collaborating on research related to iliopsoas impingement prevention and treatment include:

Research highlights