[20M] Experiencing shoulder popping with occasional pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, possible explanations for your shoulder popping include:

• Shoulder Impingement: This condition occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated and inflamed as they pass through the subacromial space, the passage beneath the acromion. This can result in pain, weakness, and loss of movement at the shoulder.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the shoulder, improve flexibility, and encourage blood flow to speed healing. In some cases, medication or injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Rotator Cuff Tear: This is a tear in one of the tendons of the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. This can cause a popping or clicking sensation in the shoulder, along with pain and weakness.

  • Treatment often involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and possibly surgery if the tear is severe.

• Shoulder Instability: This is a problem that occurs when the structures that surround the shoulder joint do not work to maintain the ball within its socket. If the joint is too loose, it may slide partially out of place, a condition called shoulder subluxation. If the joint comes completely out of place, this is called a shoulder dislocation. Patients with shoulder instability often complain of an uncomfortable sensation that their shoulder may be about to slide out of place – this is what doctors call apprehension.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder muscles. In some cases, surgery may be required.

What you can do

Please consult a healthcare professional for a formal assessment. They may order imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI to get a better look at your shoulder joint. In the meantime, you can try the following:

1. Rest your shoulder and avoid activities that cause pain.
2. Apply ice to your shoulder for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• The pain in your shoulder becomes severe or unbearable.
• You notice a significant decrease in your range of motion.
• You experience numbness or tingling in your arm or hand.
• Your shoulder joint looks deformed or out of place.

Remember, I am an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.