My Shoulder Clicks or Pops
Shoulder sounds don’t always mean trouble. But clicks with pain, catching, or weakness should be examined.
Types of shoulder sounds
Usually harmless
- Occasional painless “pop.”
- Sound during a stretch.
- Same light sound for years.
→ Often just gas bubbles in joint fluid or a tendon gliding over bone.
Needs a check
- Sound with pain.
- Catching/locking sensation.
- Clicks getting louder or more frequent.
- Happens with weakness.
→ Could be tendon injury, labrum tear, or impingement.
Issues that can cause painful clicks
- Impingement: tendon pinches when lifting.
- Labral injury: damaged cartilage causes catching.
- Rotator cuff problems: frayed or unstable tendons click.
Symptoms matter more than the sound
If there’s only sound, it’s usually fine. Add pain, weakness, or instability, and an exam is advised.
Get a clear diagnosis first
Ultrasound and movement tests pinpoint whether the click is harmless or needs treatment.
Related questions
Worried about the clicking?
We’ll check for tendon or labrum issues and guide the safest fix.
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