Hearing the sound of back cracking can be unsettling. Neck cracking might seem scary, and the idea of visiting a chiropractor for a back adjustment may make you nervous. But the term “back cracking” doesn’t accurately describe what happens during a chiropractic adjustment. Not every adjustment causes a cracking or popping noise. And when performed by a licensed chiropractor, these sounds are harmless.
Why Do Bones Crack and Pop?
Joints form where two bones meet, surrounded by connective tissue, and filled with synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates joints, allowing bones to glide and move smoothly. It also contains dissolved gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and oxygen.
The “cracking” sound, known as cavitation, happens when these gases are released from the synovial fluid. This noise is similar to the sound you hear when cracking your knuckles or when your knee pops as you straighten your leg. Hearing a crack when stretching your back is normal, as long as it happens naturally during movement and not forced.
Where Does the “Cracking” Sound Come From?
The spine, or vertebral column, consists of 33 bones called vertebrae. Between these bones are facet joints, which are synovial joints that allow our spine to bend and flex. These joints are essential for movement and also help protect the spinal cord by limiting excessive motion.
Facet joints bear a lot of stress daily, sometimes becoming misaligned or fixated. When a facet joint becomes immobilized, other nearby joints work harder to compensate, which can lead to pain. This is often why people seek chiropractic care. Misalignment can occur anywhere along the spine, not just in the neck or back, and can impact overall body function.
Is It Safe to Crack My Back Myself?
When a spinal segment doesn’t move correctly, you might feel pressure or an urge to “crack” your back. However, self-cracking isn’t precise and can lead to injuries like pulled muscles, strained tendons, or torn ligaments. Over time, this can cause chronic instability or weakness.
Chiropractic adjustments are safe when performed by a trained chiropractor, who can assess your spine and use specific techniques to address issues. Chiropractors spend extensive time learning proper adjustment techniques to ensure your spine is realigned safely.
Why Does It Feel Good When I Crack My Back or Neck?
Cracking your back or neck, or even spraining an ankle, moves your joint beyond its natural range of motion. This triggers your brain to release calming chemicals, providing temporary relief. However, this “good feeling” is short-lived, and self-cracking can cause harm after the initial relief.
When a chiropractor adjusts you, they target the specific joint that needs attention, ensuring proper alignment without causing damage.
It’s All Connected
When you see a chiropractor for lower back pain, they might adjust your neck or pelvis, even if those areas don’t hurt. That’s because everything in your body is connected. Your body works as a unit, with bones, muscles, and nerves all communicating with each other.
Chiropractic care focuses on helping your body heal itself by ensuring your spine is properly aligned. The spine protects your spinal cord, which is like a highway for messages between your brain and body. Proper alignment keeps this highway clear, allowing your nervous system to function at its best. BUT keep in mind that an adjustment is not all it takes to get rid of your pains for good because it does not address the underlying cause.
Be sure to look into the Functional Movement Rehabilitation Exercises we do with our patients and visit our Youtube Channel to get to the root of the problem.
If you find yourself needing assistance when it comes to your posture, movement, and musculoskeletal issues contact us to get us on the right track. Your body will thank you.
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