What Causes Head Clicking Sounds?
There are a few common causes of clicking or cracking sounds when moving your head:
TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can lead to clicking sounds in the jaw that may transfer up to the head and neck area. The TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skull. If the joint is damaged or the cartilage is worn down, it can cause clicking or popping with jaw movement [1]. This sound can radiate up through the head when opening and closing the mouth.
Neck Arthritis
Arthritis in the cervical spine can cause the facet joints in the neck to rub together, creating a cracking or grinding noise. As these joints become inflamed and damaged over time, bone spurs may also form and contribute to clicking sounds with neck motion [2].
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ears to the back of the throat. If they become blocked due to allergies, cold, or sinus congestion, it can change the air pressure in the middle ear. This can lead to clicking or popping sensations when moving the jaw or head [1].
Tendons or Ligaments Moving Over Bones
Tendons or ligaments sliding over bumps in the cervical spine bones can also make clicking or snapping sounds. This may occur if a tendon becomes inflamed or is hypermobile [2]. Sudden head movements can trigger these tendons to snap over the bone protuberances.
TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders are one of the most common causes of clicking or popping sounds when moving the head and jaw. These disorders affect the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), which connect the jawbone to the skull (1). TMJ disorders can arise from injury to the jaw, arthritis, or jaw misalignment.
Symptoms of TMJ disorders include pain in the jaw joint and surrounding areas, clicking/popping noises when opening and closing the mouth, and limited jaw movement or locking of the jaw (2). The pain may worsen with chewing, yawning, or other movements of the jaw. TMJ disorders can also cause headaches or earaches.
Treatments for TMJ disorders aim to relieve pain and improve jaw function. This may include resting the jaw, physical therapy, wearing a bite splint or mouth guard, medications, or surgery in severe cases. Identifying and correcting the underlying cause is also important, such as improper bite alignment caused by missing teeth or orthodontic issues.
Neck Arthritis
Neck arthritis, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a common cause of clicking sounds in the neck. It occurs due to wear and tear of the cartilage and bones in the neck vertebrae. As we age, the discs between the vertebrae lose hydration and the joints develop bone spurs and stiffness.
Injuries such as whiplash or sports injuries can also contribute to arthritis in the cervical spine. The degeneration of the cervical discs and facet joints reduces flexibility and range of motion in the neck. As you turn your head, the stiff joints end up grinding or clicking against each other instead of gliding smoothly.
Symptoms of cervical arthritis include neck stiffness, decreased range of motion when turning the head, and clicking, cracking or grating sounds with movement. There may be tenderness in the neck muscles or pain that radiates down the arms.
Treatments focus on relieving inflammation and stiffness. Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help reduce swelling. Applying hot or cold compresses may also provide relief. Physical therapy exercises aimed at improving flexibility and range of motion in the neck can help alleviate clicking and grinding.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Eustachian tube dysfunction occurs when the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and upper throat doesn’t open and close properly. This can lead to clicking, popping, or crackling sounds in the ears. Common causes of Eustachian tube dysfunction include:
Allergies – Allergic reactions and congestion can cause the Eustachian tubes to become inflamed and blocked.
Colds – Upper respiratory infections often lead to congestion that prevents the Eustachian tubes from ventilating properly (Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/crackling-in-ear)
Barotrauma – Pressure changes from flying or scuba diving can cause temporary tube dysfunction.
Symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction include clicking, popping, or crackling sounds in the ears, a feeling of ear fullness, and muffled hearing. To treat it, doctors may recommend decongestants to reduce swelling, nasal steroid sprays, or tube ventilation procedures to open the Eustachian tubes.
Tendons or Ligaments Moving Over Bones
The tendons and ligaments in the neck connect the muscles to the cervical vertebrae and allow the head to move. As these tendons and ligaments slide over the vertebral bones with neck motion, they can sometimes cause clicking or snapping sounds (1).
This tendon and ligament gliding is a normal part of anatomy, but repetitive movements can lead the tendons to snap over the bones more noticeably. The clicking is usually harmless if there is no associated pain or loss of range of motion (2).
If bothersome, targeted physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles and stabilize the tendons to reduce excessive clicking. Stretching and posture correction may also minimize friction that causes the snapping tendons (3).
While tendons moving over bones is typically benign, any new neck pain, swelling, loss of function, or neurological symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a doctor if the clicking in your head is persistent or associated with other concerning symptoms. Some signs that warrant medical evaluation include:
- Persistent pain or headaches accompanying the clicking sounds
- Clicking that occurs with dizziness or vertigo
- Limited range of motion in your neck or jaw
- Changes in your hearing such as muffled sounds or hearing loss
It’s important to see a doctor promptly if the clicking does not get better on its own or occurs with other worrisome symptoms. Persistent head clicking could indicate an underlying medical condition that requires diagnosis and treatment. Getting a proper evaluation can help identify the cause and guide appropriate therapies.
Some examples of doctors you may want to consult include your primary care physician, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor), neurologist, or physical therapist. Imaging tests like an MRI may be warranted to further evaluate the cause of persistent head clicking.
Don’t ignore ongoing clicking sounds in your head. Seeking timely medical advice can lead to effective solutions and prevent progression of secondary complications. Address concerning symptoms right away for proper management.
Diagnostic Tests
If a person’s head clicking does not resolve on its own or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, a doctor may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. Some common tests include:
Physical exam assessing range of motion: The doctor will conduct a physical exam and assess the person’s range of neck motion. They may palpate the neck and joints to check for areas of tenderness or decreased mobility that may contribute to clicking sounds.
Imaging like x-ray, CT, or MRI: Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs provide the doctor detailed views of the person’s bones, joints, and soft tissues. This allows them to check for issues like arthritis, disk problems, or anomalies that may be contributing to clicking sounds and other symptoms.
Audiology exam if ear-related: If the clicking sounds appear to stem from the middle or inner ear, the doctor may refer the patient to an audiologist for a hearing evaluation. This can assess for problems with the Eustachian tube or fluid buildup in the ear.
(Reference: Source)
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options for head clicking depending on the underlying cause:
Physical therapy can help strengthen neck muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce pain. Exercises may include stretching, posture training, and manual therapy techniques [1].
Splints or braces may be used to stabilize the jaw if the cause is TMJ dysfunction. These can help realign the jaw and reduce clicking [2].
Medications like NSAIDs or steroids can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis.
Surgery may be necessary in severe cases to repair damaged joints or tissues. This is usually only considered when other treatments have failed.
Lifestyle Changes
There are several lifestyle changes that can help manage head clicking and reduce associated pain and discomfort:
Apply heat or ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to help relieve muscle tension and pain associated with head clicking. Heat promotes blood flow while ice numbs nerve endings and reduces inflammation. Alternate between heat and ice for best results.
Perform gentle neck stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve range of motion in the neck. Target exercises like chin tucks, shoulder rolls, and side bends. Consult a physical therapist to develop a customized neck exercise routine. Staying active can help prevent stiffness.
Maintain proper posture when sitting and standing to avoid putting excess strain on the neck. Sit up straight with shoulders back, refrain from hunching over electronic devices, and use ergonomic pillows or chairs. Improper posture can contribute to neck issues.
Reduce jaw clenching and teeth grinding during the day or night by avoiding gum chewing, using a night guard, and managing stress. Clenching puts pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and can lead to pain that radiates to the neck and causes clicking.
Limit caffeine intake which can increase jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol consumption which can contribute to TMJ disorders.
When to Seek Emergency Care
In certain situations, the clicking sound in your head may indicate a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation at an emergency room or urgent care clinic. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following:
- Severe head trauma from an injury, fall, or accident
- Sudden loss of movement or weakness, especially on one side of the body
- Facial drooping, typically on one side
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
These symptoms may be indicative of a stroke, aneurysm, or other neurological emergency. According to the American Stroke Association, recognizing the signs of stroke using the FAST method (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) is critical. Seek immediate medical treatment if you notice any of these symptoms along with the clicking noise in your head, as prompt treatment can help minimize long-term disability and damage.
Head trauma from a recent blow or injury can also cause concerning clicking sounds along with symptoms like dizziness, vision changes, nausea, confusion, loss of consciousness, or clear fluid leaking from the nose or ears. Go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately if you experience any of these more serious symptoms along with head clicking.
