Unexplained Neck Sounds After Sports: Causes and Solutions

Q: Unexplained Neck Sounds After Sports: Causes and Solutions

Hello： In general outpatient clinics, the primary concern regarding joint sounds during movement is whether they are accompanied by pain. <br>Common causes may include the presence of gas bubbles within the joint that change size during movement, resulting in sound. <br>Based on

Experiencing unusual sounds when turning your head after exercise?

On the evening before the Dragon Boat Festival holiday (June 18), after finishing at the batting cage, I noticed that when I turned my head to the left beyond a certain degree, it would make a "pop" sound (not the typical "crack" sound that joints usually make).
Additionally, during the left turn, there was a very subtle "pop" sound when I exceeded a certain angle (it was very faint, usually inaudible unless in a quiet place).
The entire sequence was: head in neutral position > turning left > subtle noise after exceeding a certain point > returning to neutral position > a louder noise upon returning to neutral, which felt like it was coming from higher up (like in the head) rather than the neck.
There was no discomfort or restriction in movement, just the unusual sound.
I observed that the higher I lifted my head, the more likely the sound would occur; for example, turning left at a 20-degree angle while looking up would produce the sound, while at a 40-degree angle when level, and at a 60-degree angle when looking down.

Having played so many times, this was the first occurrence.
I recalled that on that day, I hit 3 or 4 balls that brushed the bat and flew upwards, hitting the overhead net.
To avoid getting hit by the rebounding ball, I would quickly lift my head after swinging the bat.
I suspect that this rapid head movement caused some injury, especially since I bat right-handed and turn my head to the left while hitting (I am not a doctor, so I can only speculate based on my observations of the "left turn" and "head lift").

On the first day after the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, I visited an orthopedic doctor.
After examining my neck, he said he couldn't hear the noise I described because I had no other abnormal symptoms or discomfort (such as limb numbness or other neurological issues).
He advised me to observe for a few weeks and mentioned that the area I described felt higher up, around the C1 and C2 vertebrae, and suggested I see a neurosurgeon.

Two days later, I consulted a neurosurgeon who ordered X-rays of my head and neck (four images from different angles).
He stated that my bones appeared normal and believed the sound was similar to the "cracking" noises often heard in our joints.
He also noted, as the orthopedic doctor did, that there were no neurological symptoms, so it should not be a major concern.

Three weeks have passed, and the noise persists, although it is not painful or bothersome in terms of movement.
I do not frequently turn my head to the angle that produces the noise, but the inexplicable sound in my head is quite annoying, and it is evident that it started after that day of exercise.
I still want to clarify the cause, so I would like to ask here: if there is a ligament or cartilage injury, would it be visible on an X-ray? (I am not a doctor and am unsure if those structures are present in that area.) Or could there be other potential injuries? If I were to see another doctor, which specialty would be most appropriate? Would the rehabilitation department have more cases related to sports injuries? I would appreciate your guidance on this matter.
Thank you!

Lin Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/12

Dr. Huang Minxu reply Orthopedics

Hello: In general outpatient clinics, the primary concern regarding joint sounds during movement is whether they are accompanied by pain.
Common causes may include the presence of gas bubbles within the joint that change size during movement, resulting in sound.
Based on your description, it could also be sounds produced by nearby soft tissues during activity; however, X-rays do not provide detailed information about soft tissues.
If there is no pain, there is no need for special attention or stimulation.
If pain is present, typical Western medical treatment may involve pain relief and muscle relaxation medications or physical therapy.
If you do not have time for physical therapy, after the acute phase, you can soak in warm water or apply local heat to relax the soft tissues and improve blood circulation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2015/07/12

More Info

Experiencing unexplained sounds in the neck after engaging in sports can be concerning, especially when these sounds are accompanied by specific movements like turning the head. Based on your description, it seems that you are hearing a "clicking" or "popping" sound when you turn your head to the left and then return to a neutral position. This phenomenon can be attributed to several potential causes, and understanding these can help you determine the best course of action.

Possible Causes of Neck Sounds
1. Cavitation: One of the most common reasons for joint sounds, including those in the neck, is cavitation. This occurs when gas bubbles in the synovial fluid of the joint collapse or form during movement, creating a popping sound. This is generally harmless and often occurs in joints throughout the body.

2. Ligament or Tendon Movement: As you move your neck, ligaments and tendons may shift over bony structures, which can produce a sound. This is particularly common in areas where there is a lot of movement, such as the cervical spine.

3. Joint Dysfunction: If there is any misalignment or dysfunction in the cervical joints, it could lead to abnormal sounds during movement. This might not necessarily be accompanied by pain but can be a sign of underlying issues.

4. Soft Tissue Issues: Sometimes, the sound may originate from soft tissues, such as muscles or fascia, that are moving over each other or over bony structures. This can happen especially if there has been any strain or overuse during sports activities.

5. Previous Injury: If you have had any prior injuries to the neck or upper back, these could contribute to abnormal sounds during movement. The rapid head movements you described while playing baseball could have caused some minor strain or irritation.

Diagnostic Considerations
You mentioned that you have already consulted with orthopedic and neurosurgical specialists, and they did not find any significant issues on X-rays. X-rays are excellent for visualizing bone structures but may not provide detailed information about soft tissues, ligaments, or tendons. If there is a concern about soft tissue injury, an MRI or ultrasound might be more appropriate for further evaluation.

When to Seek Further Help
Since you are experiencing persistent sounds without pain or discomfort, it may not be urgent to seek further medical attention. However, if you notice any changes, such as the development of pain, stiffness, or neurological symptoms (like tingling or weakness), it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional again.

Recommendations for Management
1. Observation: Continue to monitor the situation. If the sounds do not progress to pain or discomfort, it may simply be a benign issue.

2. Physical Therapy: Consulting a physical therapist could be beneficial. They can assess your neck's range of motion and strength, provide exercises to improve stability, and help alleviate any tension in the surrounding muscles.

3. Rest and Recovery: Ensure you are allowing adequate recovery time between sports activities. Overuse can lead to muscle fatigue and strain, which might contribute to the sounds you are experiencing.

4. Ergonomic Adjustments: Pay attention to your posture during activities and daily life. Poor posture can contribute to neck strain and may exacerbate any underlying issues.

5. Hydration and Nutrition: Maintaining good hydration and nutrition can support overall joint health and recovery.

Conclusion
In summary, the sounds you are experiencing in your neck after sports activities are likely benign and could be due to a variety of factors, including cavitation or soft tissue movement. Since you have already consulted with specialists and received reassurance, it may be best to monitor the situation while considering physical therapy for further support. If symptoms change or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation.

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