A clicking shoulder during a shoulder press can be due to several reasons, most commonly related to issues within the joint itself or surrounding tissues. Let's explore the potential causes:
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Labral Tear: This is a frequent culprit. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that stabilizes the shoulder joint. A tear, caused by injury, overuse, or age-related degeneration, can lead to clicking, popping, or grinding sensations. The torn portion can get caught within the joint during movement, causing the noise. This can also sometimes cause a feeling of instability in the joint, as if it is partially dislocating.
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Tendon Snapping: Tendons, which connect muscles to bone, can sometimes snap over bony prominences in the shoulder. This often occurs due to tightness or altered biomechanics. While it might sound alarming, it's often painless, but the noise can still be present during the shoulder press.
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Bone-on-Bone Contact: If there's cartilage loss (osteoarthritis) in the shoulder joint, the bones can rub directly against each other. This can produce a grinding or clicking sound, often accompanied by pain.
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Scapular Dyskinesis: This refers to abnormal movement of the scapula (shoulder blade). Improper scapular mechanics can alter the way the shoulder joint functions, potentially leading to clicking or popping sounds.
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Loose Bodies: Small fragments of cartilage or bone can sometimes break off inside the shoulder joint. These "loose bodies" can get caught between the joint surfaces, causing clicking or popping.
What To Do:
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Stop the Exercise: If you experience pain along with the clicking, stop doing shoulder presses. Continuing to exercise through pain can worsen the underlying condition.
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Assess for Pain: Note if the clicking is accompanied by pain, limited range of motion, or weakness. This information will be crucial when you see a healthcare professional.
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Consult a Doctor or Physical Therapist: It's best to get a proper diagnosis. A doctor or physical therapist can evaluate your shoulder, determine the cause of the clicking, and recommend appropriate treatment. This might involve physical therapy, medication, or in some cases, surgery.
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Consider Modified Exercises: While waiting for a diagnosis, explore alternative exercises that don't provoke the clicking. This could involve using lighter weights, modifying your technique, or focusing on other muscle groups.
In summary, a clicking shoulder during shoulder press can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from relatively benign tendon snapping to more significant issues like labral tears or osteoarthritis. Consulting a healthcare professional is vital for accurate diagnosis and management.
