why does my shoulder pop when i rotate it

The popping sound in the shoulder when rotating it is usually caused by several possible factors, and it is often harmless. This popping, clicking, or crackling sound is known as crepitus. One common cause is cavitation, where gas bubbles form and burst in the joint fluid similar to the sound when cracking knuckles. This generally does not cause pain and is considered normal. Other reasons for a shoulder pop include tendons or ligaments snapping over bony structures or irregularities in the joint that create a popping sound. This can be due to normal aging, previous injuries, or simply the movement of soft tissues. However, if the popping is accompanied by pain, weakness, swelling, or limited movement, it might indicate an underlying issue such as bursitis (inflammation of bursae), labral tears (damage to shoulder cartilage), rotator cuff problems, or joint instability. These conditions often require medical evaluation and treatment. In summary, shoulder popping when rotating is commonly benign and related to gas bubble release or soft tissue movements inside the joint. But if it is painful or affects function, it should be assessed by a healthcare professional for conditions like bursitis, labral tears, or rotator cuff injuries.