Quote:
Originally posted by Bill Hartman:
The pops and clicks can sometimes be related to progressive instability that develops over time due to postural adaptations, repetitive use and overuse as a result certain exercises and activities.
There can also be dysfunction in the rotator cuff. Many times in clinic we can resolve the popping by treating the subscapularis (the muscle in the front of the shoulder that holds the humeral head in place during presses and overhead movments). As the muscle function is restored, there's less atypical joint play during dynamic activities.
Also, over time the shoulder capsule laxity will change and allow greater anterior and superior translation of the humeral head. Above it is the coraco-acromial ligament and the acromion. Between the humeral head and the previously mentioned structures are important things like the supraspinatus and subacromial bursae. If it gets to the point of impingement on the cuff and bursae, there can be a progressive wear n tear much like repeatedly rubbing a rope across a sharp rock. The result = tendonosis and or cuff tear.
To make a long story short, get your posture checked and make sure you're keeping the scapular muscles strong especially the external rotators, lower and middle traps in your case (haven't you been swimming a lot?? triathalons, right?).
It could be a sign of things to come or a wake up call to re-evaluate your training.
Bill
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Yeah, looking back, I can easily say "That was me!" I ignored those warning signs, mostly because I didn't know that they were warning signs. You'd have thought that as the popping and grinding turned into pressure then pain while lifting, I would have woken up and smelled the coffee. But, no. Get it straightened out now!
I must say that I was very lucky that through all the years I had that inconvenient popping noise, I never did do any damage to my rotator cuff. I guess I'm thankful for something!
