Shoulder crepitus that causes discomfort and weakness

I'm 26 years old, have mild lumbar thoracic levoscoliosis (15 degrees). I'm right handed and used to work on the computer a lot (but not anymore, resigned from my work 2 months ago)


I have tight knots on my right shoulder, it also feels weaker compared to my left. What really bothers me though is the continuous crunching and popping sound my right shoulder makes whenever I move it upward or downward. I've done 8 physical therapy sessions but it doesn't seem to help. My xray doesn't show anything.The crepitus is not painful but my feeling on my shoulder is very uncomfortable.

Unless the mousearm is supported at the elbow, the shoulder takes a lot of strain; it should be happier now you're spending less time on the computer.

It's generally considered there are four joints in the shoulder:
1. Glenohumeral
2. AC
3. SC
4. Scapulo-thoracic

Which of these is popping and crunching? Can you tell?

Is that weakness in the shoulder associated with pain? That simply means you can't give a full contraction because it hurts.

True weakness, in the absence of pain, needs to be evaluated. Do you know if there are any reflex or sensory changes?

Dr B

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Mar 28, 2018
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by: Anonymous

My scapula-thoracic also seem to produce popping sound but it's painless.

Are there any exercises I can do to get rid of them or at least minimize the sound? TIA

Scapula thoracic joint pops and clicks are irritating but usually not significant; I know of no way to get rid of them. Sorry.

Dr B
Mar 28, 2018
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by: Anonymous

Good day doctor, thank you so much for replying. I think it's the AC joint that is producing popping and crunching sound. My range of motion is not affected, but the area between my neck and shoulder always feel very tired. It's not really pain that I'm feeling but I think it's more of fatigue that does not go away. Stretching helps it a bit but it always goes back. Thank you.

Have your chiropractor check the first rib. It could be you have a scoliosis, then there would be an apex very often at the junction of the neck and upper back. Ask if your hips are level.

I'm sorry but there are so many possibilities. Not being able to examine you ties my hands.

A clicking AC is not very significant; often in treating a sore shoulder, it's the opposite one with crepitus! It is one of the most common arthritic joints in the body.

Dr B

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