Arm and Shoulder Connection Pain: When to Seek Help

Pain at the connection between the arm and shoulder?

Hello Doctor: Recently, whenever I move my arms with a bit of force, I hear a popping sound, but it doesn't hurt.
However, yesterday, after a loud pop from my right arm while moving, I felt a slight discomfort that went away after a while, so I didn't think much of it.
The next day, during warm-up exercises, I made large circles with both arms three times front and back.
My left arm was fine, but I started to feel discomfort at the junction of my right arm and shoulder (not on the shoulder itself, but at the front of the body near the armpit) which lasted for a while before gradually easing.
Is there an issue with the joint? Should I seek medical attention? Also, is it a concern that my arm bones have been making sounds lately?

Xiao Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/30

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation

There may be a possibility of tendon injury; it is recommended to visit the rehabilitation department for an ultrasound examination of the shoulder tendons.

Reply Date: 2021/04/30

More Info

When it comes to arm and shoulder pain, particularly after experiencing a sudden noise or discomfort during movement, it’s essential to understand the potential underlying issues and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you may be experiencing symptoms related to joint or soft tissue problems, which could involve the shoulder joint, the rotator cuff, or even the surrounding muscles and tendons.

The "popping" sound you heard in your right arm could be attributed to several factors. In many cases, such sounds can occur due to the movement of tendons or ligaments over bony structures, which is often harmless. However, if accompanied by discomfort or a feeling of instability, it may indicate an underlying issue such as a rotator cuff injury, tendinitis, or even a labral tear. The location of your discomfort, near the armpit and shoulder joint, suggests that it could be related to the shoulder's rotator cuff or the glenohumeral joint.

Given that you experienced a "popping" sound followed by discomfort, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If the discomfort persists, worsens, or is accompanied by swelling, significant pain, or a decrease in range of motion, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation. An orthopedic specialist can perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies like X-rays or an MRI, to assess for any structural damage.

In terms of the sounds your arm bones are making, it is not uncommon for joints to produce noises during movement, especially if there is no associated pain. However, if these sounds are new and accompanied by discomfort, it could warrant further investigation. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis, or even impingement syndrome can lead to changes in how joints move and may produce sounds.

In summary, while occasional popping sounds without pain are generally not a cause for concern, the presence of discomfort following such an event suggests that you should consider consulting a healthcare professional. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. If you notice any worsening of symptoms or if the discomfort becomes more pronounced, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health and well-being should always come first, and a professional can provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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