Clicking sound during shoulder joint movement

Jun 01, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
In general, joint popping or cracking sounds during shoulder movement may be caused by conditions such as rotator cuff injury, periarthritis of the shoulder (frozen shoulder), or shoulder arthritis. In addition, they could also result from shoulder dislocation, bursitis of the shoulder joint, or shoulder fractures. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation and appropriate treatment at a qualified hospital once these symptoms appear, to prevent worsening of the condition.

Under normal circumstances, shoulder joint clicking during movement may be caused by rotator cuff injury, periarthritis of the shoulder (frozen shoulder), or shoulder arthritis. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Rotator Cuff Injury

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder. If it becomes injured, it may cause clicking sounds when moving the shoulder joint. If clicking is accompanied by severe pain, patients are advised to promptly visit a qualified hospital for treatment such as acupuncture or cupping therapy to relieve symptoms.

2. Periarthritis of the Shoulder (Frozen Shoulder)

Periarthritis of the shoulder is one of the common causes of shoulder pain, resulting from inflammation or damage to tissues surrounding the shoulder muscles and scapula, which may lead to clicking sounds during shoulder movement. Patients can, under medical guidance, take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) short-term to alleviate pain. Commonly used medications include ibuprofen sustained-release tablets and etoricoxib tablets.

3. Shoulder Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition characterized by joint pain and inflammation, which may also result in clicking sounds during shoulder movement. For mild symptoms, patients may take medications such as diclofenac capsules or aceclofenac tablets as directed by a physician. In more severe cases, surgical intervention at a hospital may be required.

In addition to the above, shoulder joint dislocation, shoulder bursitis, or shoulder fractures could also be potential causes. It is recommended that patients seek timely evaluation and appropriate treatment at a reputable medical facility upon experiencing such symptoms to prevent worsening of the condition.