Shoulder clicking is a common sensation many individuals experience during rotation. This phenomenon, often called popping or cracking, occurs when the shoulder joint moves. While sometimes concerning, shoulder clicking is frequently harmless, not indicating a serious underlying issue. Understanding the reasons behind these sounds can help distinguish between normal joint function and potential problems.
Common Reasons for Shoulder Clicking
A frequent and typically benign cause of shoulder clicking is cavitation, involving the formation and collapse of gas bubbles within the joint’s synovial fluid. Synovial fluid lubricates the joint and contains dissolved gases. When joint pressure changes rapidly during movement, these gases form bubbles that quickly collapse, producing an audible popping or clicking sound.
Another common reason for shoulder clicking is the movement of tendons or ligaments over bony structures. As the shoulder rotates, these soft tissues can rub against or snap over bones, creating a sound. This can happen without pain, often indicating normal joint function, though it might suggest muscle imbalances. Minor irregularities in the joint’s cartilage or bone surfaces can also contribute to clicking during movement.
When Shoulder Clicking Signals an Issue
While often benign, shoulder clicking can sometimes signal an underlying problem, especially when accompanied by other symptoms. Clicking combined with pain indicates a medical evaluation may be beneficial. Persistent pain that worsens over time, or pain that occurs after an injury, should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Clicking alongside a feeling of weakness or instability in the shoulder may point to issues such as rotator cuff tears or labral tears. A labral tear, damage to the cartilage rimming the shoulder socket, can cause sensations of catching, locking, or the shoulder “giving way” during movement. Difficulty moving the arm through its full range of motion, accompanied by clicking, might indicate inflammation, such as bursitis or tendinitis, or structural damage. Bursitis and tendinitis are types of inflammation. A distinct catching or locking sensation with clicking can also be a sign of cartilage issues.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a doctor for shoulder clicking if certain warning signs are present. If clicking is accompanied by persistent pain that worsens or interferes with daily activities, consult a doctor. Sudden onset of clicking after an injury, like a fall or trauma, also warrants immediate attention.
Other red flags include clicking combined with significant weakness or an inability to lift the arm, which could suggest a rotator cuff injury. Noticeable deformity or swelling around the shoulder also prompts a doctor’s visit. If the shoulder feels loose or unstable, as if it might slip out of place, this indicates instability requiring assessment.
Promoting Shoulder Well-being
Maintaining shoulder health involves several practices, even if clicking is benign. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help preserve flexibility and range of motion. Examples include cross-arm stretches, doorway stretches, and arm circles, encouraging movement and reducing stiffness. These exercises can improve the balance of muscle length and strength around the joint.
Adopting good posture is beneficial to reduce strain on the shoulder joint. This involves maintaining proper alignment, including sitting and standing tall with relaxed shoulders. Avoiding repetitive strain by taking frequent breaks during activities with repeated arm movements also helps. Incorporating general shoulder strengthening exercises, possibly with professional guidance, builds resilience in the muscles supporting the shoulder, contributing to stability and overall joint health.