Snapping scapula syndrome is when the shoulder blade rubs against the chest wall and makes a popping sound. It can be caused by inflammation and swelling of soft tissue, and can be treated with rest, ice, and pain relievers. Severe cases may require surgery. Baseball players and those who repeatedly raise their arms are at risk. Symptoms include pain, swelling, limited range of motion, tenderness, and weakness. A doctor should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment. Mild cases improve with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication. Surgery may be necessary if nonsurgical treatments fail.
Snapping scapula syndrome is a condition in which the shoulder blade, or scapula, rubs against the chest wall and makes an audible popping or popping sound. The condition may or may not cause pain, depending on the underlying cause. In most cases, a cracked scapula is caused by inflammation and swelling of soft tissue, ligaments, bones, or sacs of padding called bursae. When the scapula cannot slide easily along the chest wall, the bones rub together and produce the characteristic noise and sensation. The condition can usually be treated with rest, ice, and pain relievers, but a severely injured shoulder may need surgery.
The scapula is attached to the chest wall and ribs of the scapulothoracic joint in the upper mid back. The joint can become inflamed from repetitive overuse of the shoulder or direct trauma to the ribs, scapula, or muscle tissue. People who repeatedly raise or swing their arms, such as baseball players, may experience a gradual worsening of bursa inflammation that leaves the joints tight and causes the bones to rub against each other. A healing rib or scapula can also make a popping sound if it doesn’t grow back in the correct alignment.
A cracked shoulder blade caused by bursitis can be very painful. It can cause pain after physical activity that becomes more painful and more persistent over time. The shoulder may also start to swell, causing limited range of motion, tenderness to the touch, and weakness in the arm. A person with a milder injury may not notice any symptoms other than the popping noise and grinding sensation when moving the shoulder.
An individual experiencing a snapped scapula should visit a doctor, even if it is not causing severe pain. A doctor can conduct a thorough physical exam, ask about previous shoulder injuries, and perform diagnostic imaging scans. X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging screens can reveal bone abnormalities or bursal inflammation.
Mildly cracking scapula syndrome related to overuse typically improves in one to two months with rest. A person may be fitted with a sling to help immobilize the shoulder as it heals. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications can help with pain and swelling. If the pain is severe, your doctor may inject a corticosteroid solution directly into the scapulothoracic joint. When the patient begins to feel better, he can perform light stretching exercises to regain flexibility and full use of the shoulder.
Arthroscopic surgery is needed only if nonsurgical treatments fail to relieve symptoms. An orthopedic surgeon can trim damaged bursa and cartilage tissue, repair muscles and tendons, and shave ribs if needed. After surgery, a patient usually needs to wear a sling and engage in physical therapy for several months to fully recover.
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