No matter what you do, whether stretching, throwing a ball, or exercising, your shoulder protests with a distinct crack or pop. You think it’s been dislocated for sure! Sounds familiar? Noisy shoulders that are not linked to pain can be concerning as their causes aren’t easy to identify.
However, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Michael C. Cusick, M.D., says that cracking shoulders without pain is no reason to worry, “Shoulder cracking is a common phenomenon known as Crepitus. Most of the time, it’s just the sound of your shoulder functioning.”
In this blog, let’s discuss shoulder anatomy, the causes of cracking noises, and when to be concerned.
The Role of Anatomy in Shoulder Stability
To understand why your shoulder makes strange sounds when you rotate or move it, you must understand its mechanics. The shoulder has a unique joint that works like a ball and socket that can move in different directions.
It comprises muscles, ligaments, and bones that toil together to remain stable and function. Sometimes, they can cause a few audible reactions while moving. As per the research stated at Healthline, this process is known as cavitation. It occurs when joints move and release gases, similar to cracking knuckles. So the next time you hear some pops or cracks, know it’s just your joints at work.
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What Could Cracking Shoulders Mean For You?
Frequently cracking shoulders, while harmless, could be distressing. Cracking shoulders could sometimes signal various causes, from benign to potential warning signs. Here are some reasons why shoulders make cracking noises without pain:
● Loose Ligaments – If you have had shoulder injuries previously, it could lead to shoulder instability. Unstable shoulders move more than usual, so they may cause popping or cracking sounds.
● Aging and Wear — As we age, the cartilage that protects our bones in the shoulder joint begins to wear. This increases the friction of bones rubbing against each other, which can be an early indicator of arthritis.
● Tendon Movement — This is one of the most common causes of cracking noises when rotating your shoulder. Tendons glide over bony structures when you rotate your whole arm during overhead motions or exercises. Noises from your shoulder occur from this action.
● Osteochondromas — According to WebMD, osteochondromas are benign growths that can form in the shoulder or ribcage. They can contribute to sounds that come from your shoulder but are usually harmless.
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When To See A Doctor For Cracking Shoulders?
Most of the time, cracking shoulders without pain isn’t an issue. Sometimes, they can indicate underlying or potential problems you can prevent with medical attention if you catch them early on. Dr. Cusick explains, “An occasional sound from the shoulders isn’t an issue. However, excessive cracking sounds can indicate serious conditions like bursitis, labral tears, or arthritis.”
Get professional help if:
1. Your symptoms are persistent:
If you notice that the frequency of your shoulder popping has increased, especially during movement. One sure way to know if you need professional help is if it’s simply affecting your daily life.
2. You are experiencing multiple symptoms:
Cracking without pain isn’t a cause for concern. However, if you start developing pain, it should not be ignored. Look out for soreness, swelling, increased warmth, and difficulty in movement. These symptoms indicate a pressing underlying issue causing noisy shoulders.
3. If you had previous shoulder injuries:
If you have experienced previous shoulder injuries or dislocations, you might need orthopedic intervention. Cracking noises that don’t stop could indicate instability in the shoulder, and you should get professional advice for it.
To Summarize
Occasional cracking while rotating your shoulder can be ignored, as shoulders have multiple reactions when moved, such as crepitus or cavitation. It turns out that even our quiet joints can be noisy when manipulated.
However, chances are that the cracking noises your shoulder makes are bothersome. You can benefit from orthopedic help even if you don’t experience any pain. Orthopedic surgeons can guide you to perfect your joint health so you can move with ease.
