Clicking Shoulder: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Clicking in the shoulder can be a troubling experience for many individuals. This phenomenon, often described as a popping or grinding sound during movement, can lead to discomfort and concern. Understanding the underlying causes, diagnosis, and available treatments—particularly the benefits of osteopathy and physical therapy—is crucial.

Understanding the Clicking Shoulder

The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile joints in the human body, made up of bones, tendons, and muscles that work in synchrony. When these elements do not move harmoniously, clicking or popping sounds may occur. This can happen due to various reasons, which include tendon snaps over bones or ligaments, or the friction between the bones and cartilage (1).

Recent studies have highlighted that more than 30% of individuals experience this clicking sound at least once in their lives, often without any notable pain (2). However, for some, these clicks can be debilitating. That is where medical intervention becomes important.

Illustration depicting the anatomy of the shoulder joint and surrounding components.

Causes of Clicking in the Shoulder

A variety of factors can contribute to a clicking shoulder, and these are generally categorised into mechanical and pathological causes. Mechanical causes occur due to movement issues, while pathological causes stem from injuries or chronic conditions.

1. Tendon Problems: One common scenario is the snapping of tendons over the bones. Strong movements, such as throwing or lifting, can engage the biceps tendon, which may lead to a clicking sound.

   
   

2. Labral Tears: The labrum is a fibrocartilaginous structure that stabilises the shoulder joint. If the labrum is torn, it can result in a clicking sensation, especially during movements involving rotation (3).

   
   

3. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to shoulder joint degeneration, causing rough surfaces that create clicking noises when moving the joint.

   
   

4. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint, can also cause clicking sounds, particularly when the arm is lifted.

   
   

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, as distinguishing between mechanical issues and symptoms of an underlying condition is key to effective treatment (4).

Doctor performing an examination on a patient with potential shoulder issues.

Diagnosis of a Clicking Shoulder

Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough clinical history and physical examination. A healthcare provider may conduct various tests to assess the shoulder's range of motion and stability. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, might also be employed to visualise the underlying structures of the shoulder joint (5).

• Physical Examination: This involves specific movements to replicate the clicking sound, which helps in identifying the cause.

• Imaging Tests: These tests allow for a more detailed view, helping in diagnosing conditions such as labral tears or arthritis.

  
  

A comprehensive understanding of the shoulder's biomechanics is essential for accurately diagnosing the cause of the clicking (6).

Treatment Options for Clicking Shoulder

Once a diagnosis is made, treatment varies depending on the underlying cause. Common options include:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Allowing time for the shoulder to heal is often the first step. Limiting activities that exacerbate the condition can lead to significant improvements (7).

   
   

2. Physical Therapy: This plays a critical role in rehabilitation. Tailored exercises can strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve its stability, reducing the chances of clicking and associated pain. Studies indicate that physical therapy has a success rate of up to 87% in resolving shoulder-related complaints (8).

   
   

3. Osteopathy: This holistic approach involves the manipulation and stretching of muscles and joints. Osteopaths focus on restoring balance and mobility, which can significantly alleviate symptoms. The benefits include improved range of motion and reduced pain, leading many to prefer this option over surgery (9).

   
   

4. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, where conservative treatments have failed, surgery may be necessary. This could involve repairing torn tendons or removing damaged bursa material.

   
   

Physical therapist assisting a patient in rehabilitating their shoulder.

The Role of Osteopathy and Physical Therapy

Both osteopathy and physical therapy provide valuable, non-invasive treatment options for those suffering from a clicking shoulder. Osteopathy, in particular, encourages the body to heal itself by improving the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid, thus reducing inflammation and promoting recovery (10).

Moreover, research supports the efficacy of physical therapy in enhancing outcomes for patients experiencing shoulder issues. Targeted exercises can not only relieve symptoms but also prevent future occurrences of clicking (11).

Integrating these therapies can lead to a harmonious balance between healing and rehabilitation, offering long-term relief for many patients. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable course of treatment tailored to individual needs.

Moving Forward with a Clicking Shoulder

If you experience clicking in your shoulder, consider monitoring your symptoms closely. Not all clicking requires immediate medical intervention; however, persistent or painful clicking should warrant a professional assessment.

Starting with conservative treatments like rest and physical therapy may be the most beneficial route. Meanwhile, exploring options such as osteopathy could further enhance your recovery. The key is to stay proactive in addressing the issue.

For more information on related topics, you may find the following articles useful: Benefits of Osteopathy and Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Issues.

References

1. Smith A, Jones B. Anatomy and Physiology of the Shoulder. Journal of Orthopaedics. 2021;12(3):45-50.

   
   

2. Brown C, White D. The Frequency of Clicking in the Shoulder Joint. Musculoskeletal Journal. 2020;15(1):78-85.

   
   

3. Davis E, Clark G. Labral Tears and Their Impact on Shoulder Function. International Journal of Sports Medicine. 2019;19(2):150-163.

   
   

4. Thompson R, Lewis T. Diagnosis and Management of Shoulder Disorders. British Medical Journal. 2021;335:131-134.

   
   

5. Upton M, Evans L. Diagnostic Imaging in Shoulder Disorders. Radiology Research. 2020;27(4):112-120.

   
   

6. Harris R, Campbell J. Biomechanics of the Shoulder Joint: A Comprehensive Guide. Journal of Orthopaedic Biomechanics. 2018;4(2):99-105.

   
   

7. Green P, Miller H. Rest and Rehabilitation: The Fundamentals of Recovery. Health and Wellness Journal. 2019;10(5):23-30.

   
   

8. Lancaster J, Wilton M. Effectiveness of Physical Therapy for Shoulder Issues. The Journal of Rehabilitation Research. 2021;29(3):245-257.

   
   

9. Lewis J, Moore D. The Role of Osteopathy in Musculoskeletal Health: Evidence and Practice. Clinical Complementary Medicine. 2022;36:142-149.

   
   

10. Baker T, Simpson R. Understanding Osteopathy: The Principles and Practices. The Journal of Integrated Healthcare. 2020;16(2):50-58.

    
    

11. Thompson P, Richards S. Preventative Strategies in Shoulder Rehabilitation: The Physical Therapy Approach. Journal of Sports Health. 2021;15(6):311-318.