Shoulder Burst: When to Worry
If you experience occasional popping or clicking in your shoulder but no pain, there’s probably no cause for concern, says the Cleveland Clinic. But if you experience pain accompanied by a shoulder tap, you may have an injury that needs to be evaluated by a doctor.
As you age, the cartilage that protects your joints may begin to wear away, causing your bones to rub against each other. Over time, this manifests as arthritis, a degenerative disease that causes persistent pain and stiffness.
The most common type of shoulder arthritis is called osteoarthritis, or “wear and tear” arthritis, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeon (AAOS). The AAOS reports that its symptoms tend to begin in middle age.
If your shoulder clicks when you raise an arm — or if it locks, hurts, and feels unstable — you may have a torn glenoid labrum, explains the AAOS. This injury occurs following trauma to the tissue edge surrounding the shoulder socket (often caused by a fall on an outstretched arm or a blow to the shoulder) or overuse (throwing balls, constantly hitting overhead).
Bursitis and rotator cuff tendinitis or shoulder impingement syndrome also cause popping in the shoulders, explains Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic. Consult a doctor to determine what’s behind your pops and clicks and whether exercising the shoulder area is safe for you.
Although some shoulder injuries require surgery, others can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications or by performing the movements below. Try them once you get the green light from your doctor, and stop if at any point you feel pain.
