Snapping Scapula | Shoulder Bursitis | Shoulder Snapping

I Hear a Crackling, Popping Sound in My Shoulder. What Exactly is Snapping Scapula Syndrome?

Dear Dr. Millett,

I hear a constant crackling sound in my shoulder and upper back and it hurts often. I have been hearing about snapping scapula syndrome. What is that?

Snapping scapula syndrome, also known as scapulocostal syndrome, scapulothoracic syndrome, snapping scapula, and scapulothoracic bursitis (ST bursitis), is explained as a painful popping, cracking, or grinding in the scapula (shoulder blade – back portion of the shoulder) and downwards towards the backside of the ribs. The cause of snapping scapula is really unknown but may be due to a muscle imbalance. This causes both the snapping sound and the associated pain.

Common treatments for Snapping Scapula Syndrome are:

• Pain Relievers
• Cortisone Injections
• Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

The syndrome is often misdiagnosed and is not well understood by many doctors. If you suspect you may have snapping scapula syndrome, you should discuss this with your current physician or, even better, a specialist who is familiar with the diagnosis and treatment, t will be important to decide whether the severity of the pain and other symptoms warrant surgical treatment,

For many patients, I am able to correct this condition using an arthroscopic surgery to remove the inflamed bursa and any offending bone from the scapula. We have now performed many of these surgeries and have ongoing research on the cause, treatment and outcomes for patients with snapping scapula. The surgery is a minimally invasive surgery with two small incisions and a one-night hospital stay. For many patients recovery is very quick with immediate pain relief and alleviation of the grinding sensation following surgery. As always, you and your doctor will need to decide which solution is best for your specific problem.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

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I Hear a Crackling, Popping Sound in My Shoulder. What Exactly is Snapping Scapula Syndrome?

I Hear a Crackling, Popping Sound in My Shoulder. What Exactly is Snapping Scapula Syndrome?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD