The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint, and it’s common for it to produce sounds like popping, clicking, or cracking during movement. Many people experience this, whether lifting an arm, reaching overhead, or rotating the joint. While these sounds can be startling, they are frequently a normal part of how the body functions and do not always indicate a serious underlying problem.
Understanding Shoulder Sounds
The medical term for these joint sounds is “crepitus,” which describes a crackling, grinding, or squeaking noise or sensation within a joint. Often, these sounds are benign and result from the release of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid, a lubricating substance. This process, known as cavitation, is similar to cracking knuckles. Tendons or ligaments around the shoulder joint can also shift and snap back into place, creating a painless popping or clicking sound. Many shoulder sounds are not accompanied by pain and typically do not require treatment. However, if the popping is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may suggest an underlying issue.
Causes of Shoulder Popping
When shoulder popping is accompanied by pain or other symptoms, it often points to a specific underlying condition.
Biceps Tendon Subluxation
This occurs when the long head of the biceps tendon partially slips out of its groove in the upper arm bone. This can lead to instability, pain at the front of the shoulder, and a clicking or popping sensation, particularly with overhead movements.
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis and Bursitis
An inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons, tendinitis can cause popping or cracking sounds. It often results from overuse or repetitive overhead motions, leading to swelling that pinches the rotator cuff. Similarly, bursitis, the inflammation of fluid-filled sacs called bursae that cushion the shoulder, can cause a snapping sound along with pain and warmth.
Labral Tears and Shoulder Instability
Damage to the cartilage rim of the shoulder socket can result in popping, clicking, grinding, or a catching sensation. These tears can cause pain, instability, and a feeling that the shoulder might give out. When the upper arm bone moves out of the shoulder socket, it can produce distinct popping sounds as the bone shifts.
Arthritis and Loose Bodies
Osteoarthritis can cause grating, grinding, or popping noises as the cartilage that cushions the bones wears down over time, leading to bones rubbing together. Small fragments of bone or cartilage floating within the joint can also cause clicking, catching, and locking sensations in the shoulder. These fragments can result from injuries or degenerative changes.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many shoulder pops are benign, certain signs and symptoms indicate that medical evaluation is needed. If the popping sound is consistently accompanied by pain, it suggests an underlying issue. Pain can range from a dull ache to sharp or shooting sensations. Other concerning symptoms include weakness or difficulty moving the arm, which may indicate damage to muscles or tendons. A limited range of motion, stiffness, or a feeling that the shoulder is “giving out” or unstable are also reasons to consult a healthcare provider. Swelling, bruising, or visible deformity around the shoulder joint are indicators that require medical attention. If the popping occurs after an injury or trauma, such as a fall or accident, or if symptoms are persistent or worsening over time, seeking a medical opinion is advisable to prevent further complications.
At-Home Care and Prevention
For shoulder popping that is not painful or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, at-home care can be beneficial:
- Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises can help improve flexibility and prevent tendons from snapping over bones.
- Improving posture can enhance shoulder mechanics and alleviate pressure on the joint.
- Activity modification, such as avoiding movements that aggravate the popping, allows the shoulder to rest and heal.
- Applying ice or heat can help manage any mild discomfort or inflammation.
- Strengthening exercises for the shoulder and surrounding muscles, including the rotator cuff and scapular muscles, are important for long-term stability and reducing popping. Proper form during these exercises is important to avoid further strain.
- Resting the shoulder when experiencing discomfort or weakness supports recovery.