Bone Cracking Chiropractor Near Me? The 91 Correct Answer

The chiropractor was working on Lynne Beliveau’s neck when she became dizzy and unable to see or move. Beliveau was taken to the hospital and she had a shunt inserted to relieve the pressure caused by the swelling in her brain. The Ashburn woman suffered a series of strokes and today, eight years later, the 41-year-old mother of three suffers from constant dizziness.

Elizabeth Haran Caplan knew she was in trouble seconds after an Oklahoma City chiropractor operated on her throat. The room went dark and she felt dizzy. Because of her years of service as a combat medic in Kosovo and Somalia, she knew what was going on and yelled, “Stop. I’m having a stroke.” More than a decade later, she is blind in her left eye and has trouble swallowing without choking due to paralysis on one side of her throat.

About 20 million Americans visit chiropractors each year to seek relief from back pain, neck pain, headaches, sinus problems, ringing in the ears and more, according to the American Chiropractic Association. For many, the manipulations bring relief. But one of the techniques chiropractors use, called cervical neck manipulation or “throat cracking,” has raised concerns that it can cause serious harm.

“I jumped from planes, escaped bullets in Somalia,” said Haran Caplan, 47, who retired from the army as a lieutenant colonel nine years ago. “Who knew the most dangerous place I would sit down was at a chiropractor’s desk?”

neck and spine

David Walls-Kaufman, a district chiropractor who has been practicing for more than 30 years, said every patient has “two neurological problems” or problem areas: the neck and the spine. “It’s important to work on the throat if we’re going to heal their problems,” he said. Walls-Kaufman sits on the National Council on Chiropractic Practice’s policy committee, which describes its mission as providing evidence-based guidelines that “serve the needs of the consumer and are consistent with ‘real world’ chiropractic practice.”

Evidence of the effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation is inconclusive, in part due to a lack of large, rigorously designed studies. Some studies suggest that spinal manipulation may be helpful in lowering blood pressure, treating some headaches, helping colicky infants, limiting migraines, and relieving some types of back pain. However, others have raised concerns, particularly about the sudden, powerful impacts used in cervical neck manipulations and the possibility that they could rupture the carotid or vertebral artery leading to the brain. Such tears can cause a blood clot to travel to the brain and cause a stroke.

A 2010 study of deaths from spinal manipulation found 26 published cases and seven unpublished cases, mostly due to a rupture or “dissection of a vertebral artery,” and suggested many more cases had gone unreported. A 2007 survey of side effects published in medical journals between 2001 and 2006 found that “spinal manipulations, particularly when performed on the upper spine, are commonly associated with mild to moderate side effects. It can also lead to serious complications such as vertebral artery dissection followed by stroke.” It noted that “survey data suggest that even serious side effects are rarely reported in the medical literature.” A 2013 survey of 43 studies conducted between 2001 and 2011 found 707 incidents of stroke associated with cervical spine manipulation therapy, but the authors said understanding of such incidents has been hampered by underreporting.

neck manipulation

The American Chiropractic Association says that “Neck manipulation is a remarkably safe procedure. While some reports have linked high-velocity neck manipulation to a specific type of stroke or vertebral artery dissection, recent evidence suggests that this type of arterial injury often occurs spontaneously or after everyday activities such as turning your head while driving or swimming , or a shampoo at a hair salon.”

Stephen Perle, a spokesman for the American Chiropractic Association, said: “There is no such thing as ‘chiropractic stroke,’ and there is no such thing as ‘unfortunate heartburn.’ There are strokes and there are VAD [vertebral artery dissection] that cause strokes. Just the name [i.e. H. ‘chiropractic stroke’] defines cause when unknown” because many people go to chiropractors when they have neck pain that may have turned into a stroke without manipulation.

Perle said strokes after cervical manipulation are “extremely rare” and that more studies are needed to prove a link.

Perle and other chiropractors cite a 2008 Canadian study that found that most of those who had a stroke after neck manipulation already had symptoms suggestive of a stroke.

Felipe Albuquerque, a neurosurgeon in Phoenix who has studied stroke injuries following neck manipulation, said claims that those who suffer tears in their neck arteries have suffered strokes regardless of treatment suggest an “eerie coincidence.” He believes that the patients he has seen who have had a stroke after undergoing chiropractic manipulation either had a new arterial injury or one made worse by the manipulation.

“The epidemiology of these injuries is almost impossible to establish,” wrote Albuquerque et al in a 2011 study in the journal Neurosurgery. “Studies suggest that their incidence is between 1 in 100,000 and 1 in 6,000,000 tampering. Given that Americans visit chiropractors more than 250,000,000 times a year and that 30 percent of those visits involve cervical manipulations, the incidence of arterial dissection is likely higher than the lowest estimates. A significant number of dissections go unreported, either because they are mild or asymptomatic.”

A sure way

Walls-Kaufman says the possibility of a stroke from neck manipulation doesn’t cross his mind when patients come to him because it’s so rare. “I’ve never heard of a [happening],” he said. He uses what he believes to be a safer method of neck manipulation, which involves turning the head toward the shoulder in a way that doesn’t challenge the artery. Alan Lichter, another Washington chiropractor, says he also uses “softer” neck manipulation.

Although Lichter says that “a growing body of research shows that those who have a stroke had a pre-existing condition. . . . There may be some risk for people who are already at risk.”

Haran Caplan said she wishes she had been told beforehand that there is a risk involved in neck manipulation, even if it is very small. She has been in treatment many times and does not recall ever receiving informed consent. Given her medical background, she says she would never have had the treatment had she read about an even lower risk of stroke. “I would have read it and left,” she said.

Beliveau, who went to the chiropractor for persistent back pain after a car accident, said she wouldn’t have had the treatment either had she known.

Keith Overland, president of the American Chiropractic Association, said through spokesperson Melissa Lee that the group “supports informed consent and shared decision-making with patients. . . . It is up to physicians to determine what to communicate to their patients, based on a thorough history and examination, and consideration of local laws and legal norms.”

Jeremy Youngblood’s parents wish their son understood the risk. Youngblood, a healthy 30-year-old, went to an Oklahoma City chiropractor in 2011 for a neck manipulation to relieve lower back pain. It was his first visit. He died four days later. An autopsy report states that he died of “acute cerebellar infarction due to manipulation of the neck.”

Wade Smith, a neurologist and one of the authors of a 2003 study that found chiropractic manipulation as an independent risk factor for stroke, said chiropractors need to warn people even when the risk is small.

“If the practitioner doesn’t want to discuss risks, you shouldn’t go to that person,” Smith said.

Berger is a freelance journalist.

You got out of bed after a restless night due to chronic back problems. Not sure if it’s your mattress or maybe your golf swing that’s causing that pain. Or maybe you were bending down to pick up your child and you felt sharp, sudden pain in your lower back as they decided to hold on. Either way, it hurts to move your neck or pick up the groceries. It may hurt to walk or make sudden movements. You can’t imagine how you’re going to get through your day at work, let alone the uncomfortable commute to work.

To make an appointment for a fitting, give us a call.

970-203-9997

Back pain can be excruciating and debilitating. It affects your sleep and productivity, and can be a major cause of depression and anxiety. Although many people are reluctant to try it for the first time, seeking a fitting from a licensed chiropractor is a completely safe and effective route to pain relief. Although it may require multiple chiropractic adjustments, people often report feeling relieved after their first visit. But for the uninitiated, what exactly is a chiropractic adjustment? And more importantly, how much pain is associated with this type of treatment?

Related: 3 Signs It’s Time to See a Chiropractor for Your Lower Back Pain

What exactly is an adjustment?

When a licensed chiropractor recommends an adjustment for you, it simply means that they apply pressure to your back to realign your spine. Over time, this realignment reduces your pain, promotes better posture, and improves your body’s physical function. Generally, chiropractors use their hands or a small medical instrument to manipulate the joints quickly and in a controlled manner.

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt? how do they feel

Adjustments are a simple outpatient procedure that can be performed during lunch breaks. Adjustment involves little to no pain. You may feel pops and pops, but you shouldn’t feel any severe pain. If you weren’t in pain before the fitting, you usually won’t be. Some chiropractic patients experience mild aches or pains after a visit. Report that this mild pain feels similar to that experienced after vigorous exercise or intense stretching.

Risks of Chiropractic Adjustments

As with any medical procedure, one must be aware of the risks involved. These risks are rare, but still you need to consider them before your first chiropractic adjustment.

Possibility of a herniated disc or worsening of a pre-existing herniated disc

Nerve compression in the lower spine

A risk of stroke associated with neck displacement (this risk is minimal)

As always, speak to a doctor or healthcare provider to understand your specific situation beforehand. There are certain people for whom chiropractic adjustment is not recommended. If any item on the list describes your medical history, do not seek chiropractic care.

Known osteoporosis

Any numbness or tingling in your arms or legs

Any unusual loss of strength in your arms or legs

cancer of the spine

if you have an increased risk of stroke

Any instability in the spine

Related: Understanding the Different Chiropractic Techniques

What to expect for my chiropractic adjustment

For someone who has never experienced chiropractic care, finding a fitting can be intimidating. As with any visit to the doctor’s office, you will be taken to a private examination room. This room will most likely contain furniture resembling a comfortable massage therapist table or chair. You will often be asked to lie on your stomach or back and relax during the fitting.

The chiropractor will address your pain issues and concerns and explain the treatments he or she can offer you. The doctor may ask you some questions about your medical history or review X-rays that you have taken. The chiropractor positions you on the table and explains exactly what he or she is going to do. Once you feel comfortable, the chiropractor will begin treatment.

See also: Does a chiropractor always use their hands when making adjustments?

While the doctor performs the procedure, you may hear pops and pops in your joints, but you shouldn’t feel any severe pain. Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may make a second or third adjustment. After he or she is done, the doctor will advise you on some simple follow-up treatments like ice packs or heat pads that will continue to aid in your pain management. It’s important to note that each type of customization offered is slightly different. Here is an explanation of some of the typical types of adjustments performed by licensed chiropractors.

neck adjustment

Neck adjustments are performed by manipulating your cervical vertebrae to improve mobility in the joints. This is usually done while lying comfortably and relaxed on your back. The chiropractor touches your neck and rotates your head from side to side in a controlled motion. Neck adjustments are often a treatment for people with chronic headaches and neck strains.

Adjustment of the lower back

There are several ways to achieve lower back adjustment. A typical method is to place the patient on their back and gently rotate the hips so that one leg is crossed over the other and the patient’s lower body is resting on the hip. Again, you may hear some snaps and pops in your joints, but no pain is felt with this type of adjustment.

See also: 4 exceptionally common causes of lower back pain

shoulder adjustment

Although not generally considered part of the spine, the shoulders can play an important role in spinal health. A misalignment in the shoulder can cause back pain, neck pain or headaches. Typically, this type of adjustment is made with the patient comfortably seated on the examination table. The chiropractor manipulates the shoulder to move the joint forward or backward for better alignment. This will help improve a patient’s posture, which contributes to overall spinal alignment. This type of adjustment is especially good for those who sit at a desk most of the time.

How often should you get fitted?

Some people find that their pain is gone after a chiropractic adjustment. However, most people require multiple visits to fully realign their spine. Other people visit the chiropractor regularly as part of their overall health management. This is something you can decide with your chiropractic doctor. It’s also important to note that chiropractic care may be covered by your health insurance. More and more health insurance companies are beginning to recognize the benefits of regular chiropractic care. Contact your insurance provider to find out how many visits are covered by your plan.

Chiropractic adjustments are a safe and effective way to treat your back, neck, and shoulder pain. Don’t assume an adjustment will cause more pain than you already have. Although some people report mild aches and pains after an adjustment, these symptoms often go away within a day. Most people experience pain relief and a sense of relaxation and comfort after a visit to the chiropractor. If you have severe or increasing pain in your back, shoulders, or neck, a chiropractic adjustment may be right for you.

Truth: Why Doctors Don’t Like Chiropractors

It’s embedded in their roots. . .

But I would say some chiropractors are improving their relationships with doctors recently. In the past, the medical associations have shown distaste for any other community that treats the sick. So it started primarily as a turf war. Second, doctors don’t really understand what chiropractors do since they haven’t been trained in spinal manipulation techniques. Usually the only information they get about chiropractors is a one-sided opinion from patients who have had unsuccessful chiropractic care. Think of it like this if 100 people went to a chiropractor for back pain and 90 of them got better, but the 10 who didn’t get better went to the surgeon and said, “I went to a chiropractor and I got it.” not done. no better!” what does the surgeon hear? A one sided story as he has never heard of the 90s getting better and avoiding his office altogether. Well, as with any profession, there are certainly some bad apples among chiropractors. But when anyone, including the doctor, hears a story about a bad chiropractor, all chiropractors are thrown into the same heap. Then there’s that age old adage: once you go to a chiropractor, they want you to come back forever! Pooh! That’s another topic, you can read more about it here.

Eventually, many chiropractors push their limits. Some make false claims about treating symptoms and diseases for which there is no evidence, and preach anti-medical beliefs to patients. Doctors don’t take it well with other healthcare professionals when they tell patients to stop visiting their doctor and taking their prescribed medications.

But I have great news for you!

The real story is that not all chiropractors are the same. And some, like the chiropractors in our office, actually have working relationships with many doctors in the community. That’s right, doctors like our chiropractors and they refer patients here to get better! How and why does this happen? Because there are good chiropractors trying to change the field of chiropractic for the better. Honestly, there is no turf war. Physicians are at the forefront of healthcare and have a broad field of activity. However, when it comes to musculoskeletal disorders like neck and back pain, the entire medical community knows (and many research articles have proven) that exercise is medicine. Medications are fine for short-term relief, but patients need to move, stretch, and strengthen the right areas to have a chance of a full recovery.

Some patients are also not well-suited to medications that may be indicated for pain. For example, patients with high blood pressure, previous heart attack, stomach or intestinal ulcers, pregnancy and those who form a habit of drinking alcohol should not be prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen due to potentially harmful side effects. Also, people taking muscle relaxants are advised not to operate heavy machinery or drive cars. Many people are unable to meet these restrictions due to daily commitments such as work or childcare. For these people, a drug-free approach to pain management is a much better option. In fact, there is a significant amount of research that says spinal manipulation is safe and effective for neck and back pain, and even more research that says manipulation along with a home exercise program is just as good or better for long-term effectiveness in reducing back and neck pain compared to taking medication alone.

Best of all, and to put an end to an old rumor, at Select Spine & Sports Medicine we don’t want you to come back forever! In fact, we want you to get better and get back to your normal life as soon as possible!

When most patients and doctors think of chiropractors, they think of “back popping” or what we call spinal manipulation.

Spinal manipulation creates movement in the facet joints of the spine, which helps relieve pain and restore motion and function to the spinal joints. However, this is not the only treatment option to which our profession is limited. At Select Spine & Sports Medicine, not only is that not all we do, our office has a full list of conservative treatment options including:

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy for individuals with herniated discs;

electrical muscle stimulation for the relief of pain, inflammation and muscle spasms;

massage to relieve pain from tension and tight muscles;

physical medicine and rehabilitation to restore flexibility, strength and function to an injured joint or muscle;

low-level laser therapy to reduce pain and inflammation; and

Kinesiology taping methods to support injured areas during their recovery.

Using these techniques we have seen great success in treating a number of different musculoskeletal conditions such as Neck Pain, Back Pain, Herniated Discs, Sciatica, Whiplash, Sports Injuries, Shoulder Injuries, Tennis Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Hip Pain, Knee Pain, IT Band Syndrome, Patellar Tendonitis , ankle sprains and more.

When you need a chiropractor in Friendswood (Houston area), Select Spine & Sports Medicine has you covered! We are in:

1100 S. Friendswood Dr. Ste B

Friendswood, TX 77546 P: 281-993-2122

When you “crack” your back, you are adjusting, mobilizing, or manipulating your spine. Overall, you should be fine doing this yourself on your back. These tweaks don’t actually require those telltale pops and pops to be effective, but we do know they provide that momentary sense of relief. Just remember not to overdo it or force anything. Here are 10 moves and stretches to help you crack your back, plus a video that demonstrates some of these moves in more detail. Gentle stretches and movements like those described here to adjust your back can also warm up your body and muscles and loosen tight areas. First, we’ll start with two ways to use a chair on your back.

1. Chair Back Stretch Sit in a chair with a firm back that allows your shoulder blades to fit over the top. You can interlace your fingers behind your head or stretch your arms over your head. Sit back and relax. Continue leaning back over the top of the chair until your back cracks. You can experiment with different heights by gently moving your body up and down. You’ll feel this stretch in your upper and middle back.

2. Chair Twist Sit in a chair and stretch your right arm across your body to hold the left side of the chair. Your right hand should be on the seat of the chair or on the outside of your left leg. Lift your left arm behind you to hook it over the back of the chair. Gently twist your torso to the left as far as possible, with your hips, legs, and feet pointing forward. Repeat these movements on the opposite side to rotate to the right. Your rotation should start at the base of your spine. You’ll feel this stretch in your lower and middle back.

3. Back Extension While standing, make a fist with one hand and wrap the other hand around the base of your spine. Press down on your spine with your hands at a slight upward angle. Sit back and use the pressure of your hands to crack your back. Move your hands up your spine and do the same stretch at different levels. You will feel this stretch along your spine where you apply pressure. For a variation of this stretch, try the next exercise.

4. Standing Lumbar Extension From a standing position, place your palms along your back or on top of your butt with your fingers pointing down and your pinky fingers on either side of your spine. Raise and straighten your spine upwards, and then bend backwards, applying gentle pressure to your back with your hands. Hold this position for 10 to 20 seconds and remember to breathe. If your flexibility allows, you can move your hands further up and perform the stretch at different levels. You may also feel the stretch in your upper spine or between your shoulder blades.

5. Upward stretch From a standing position, interlace your fingers behind your head. Slowly straighten your spine up and bend backwards, cradling your head in your hands. Create resistance by pushing your hands into your head. Stay in this position for 10 to 20 seconds. Don’t forget to breathe.

6. Standing spinal rotation Extend your arms in front of you while standing. Slowly rotate your torso to the right, with your hips and feet pointing forward. Return to center and then turn left. Continue this movement a few times or until you hear your back cracking or your back feels looser. You can use the momentum of your arms to control the movement. You will feel this stretch in your lower spine.

7. Seated Twist Sit on the floor with your left leg extended in front of you and bend your right leg so your knee is up. Cross your right leg over your left by placing your right foot outside your left knee. Keep your spine long and straight. Place your right hand on the floor behind your hips and place your left elbow outside of your right knee, rotate to look over your right shoulder. Press your arm and knee together to deepen the stretch. The twist should start at the lower back. You will feel this stretch along your entire spine.

8. Supine Foam Roller Stretch “Supine” is another way of saying you’re lying on your back. Lying on your back with your knees bent, place a foam roller horizontally under your shoulders. Interlace your fingers at the back of your head or stretch them out beside your body. Use your heels as momentum to roll your body up and down over the foam roller and press it against your spine. You can roll up to your neck and lower back, or focus on your middle back. If comfortable, you can bend your spine slightly. Roll 10 times in each direction. You will feel this massage and stretch along your spine and may have a few adjustments made.

9. Back twist Lie on your back with your right leg straight and your left leg bent. Extend your left arm to the side and away from your body and rotate your head to the left. While holding this stretched position, twist your lower body to the right. Imagine trying to touch the floor with your left shoulder and left knee at the same time. You don’t really have to do this – your left shoulder will most likely be lifted off the floor, and your knee may not reach the floor on its own either. You can place a pillow under your left shoulder if it doesn’t reach all the way down. Take a deep breath while using your right hand to push your left knee down. Bring your left knee higher toward your chest or straighten your leg to deepen the stretch. Repeat on the opposite side. You will feel this stretch in your lower back.

10. Supine Shoulder Blade Stretch Lie on your back with your knees bent and stretch your arms straight up toward the ceiling. Cross your arms in front of your chest and reach around you as if trying to grab opposite shoulder blades. Sit up slightly, then lower yourself back down to the floor. Do this two to three times. You will feel this stretch along your upper back.

Practice Tips These simple stretches can be done as part of a longer stretching routine or on their own throughout the day. Always move in and out of each exercise gently, without making sudden or sharp movements. You may want to take a moment to relax before and after each stretch. Be gentle and gradually increase the pressure or intensity used for these stretches. Usually, each stretch produces only one adjustment instead of repetitive ones. While these stretches won’t provide you with an adjustment, they should still feel good and help loosen up your joints.

When not to crack your own back It can be safe to crack your own back, as long as you do it carefully and with caution. However, some people believe that this should be done by professionals as they are specially trained to safely adjust the back. Adjusting your back incorrectly or too often can aggravate or cause pain, muscle strain, or injury. It could also lead to hypermobility, where you stretch your spine and back muscles so much that they lose elasticity and can become out of alignment. If you have back pain, swelling, or any type of injury, don’t crack your own back. This is especially important if you have or suspect a disc problem. Wait until fully healed or seek the assistance of a physical therapist, chiropractor, or osteopath.

We all know the cracking sound that sometimes comes from joints or bones. For some, it’s a cracking sensation, for others, it feels like a pop or pop.

Most of us don’t feel pain from broken bones, it’s just part of our body and part of our joints and ligaments. In fact, many of us like – we like the feeling! For many people, the “popping” or “popping” can help relieve pain temporarily and may even help release tension in the area.

While in the past people scared others by saying that broken bones lead to conditions like arthritis, nothing has been scientifically proven as such, and it’s unlikely to be the case.

Many joints in the body can crack and burst — but the most common are:

Ankle,

Finger,

Knee,

hips,

toes,

Neck,

The back.

While most of the time you will experience the sensation of bone cracking at home or alone, it is possible to pay a professional to strategically crack and align your joints. This is typically most popular for the neck and back and is commonly performed by chiropractors.

Cracking your fingers or toes at home is relatively risk-free, but you should never attempt to crack your neck or back at home or alone. Yes, a cracked back can help relieve pain and tension—but your neck and back (due to the complexity of the joints and bones) will need professional attention in these cases.

Should I be concerned if my bones break badly?

It can be a little disconcerting to hear your bones cracking constantly, but rest assured it’s relatively normal. As long as it doesn’t cause you any discomfort or pain, it’s usually not a cause for concern.

Be mindful of any swelling or redness, though—because if any of these things accompany the tearing, you might want to see a doctor and get a proper exam.

Just approach the cracking with instinct. If this makes you feel pain or discomfort, then something may be wrong. If your joints don’t look regular, then something might be wrong.

What causes the “clicking” noise?

It’s important to understand that when your joints make that cracking sound, it’s not actually your bones that are cracking or splitting. The cracking is only related to the sound it makes, not the actual action or cause.

However, there are a few reasons why your body might be making those cracking noises – and you can read more about them below:

Escaping Gases: Probably the most common cause of this noise is gas bubbles escaping from your joints, making small popping noises. The gas comes from the fluid in your joints (which helps the joints move smoothly and pain-free).

Movement of Joints, Tendons and Ligaments: When you move any joint in your body, it affects the ligaments and tendons (big or small). When a position changes, you may hear a snapping sound as the tendon or ligament snaps back into place. This noise is most common in the ankles and knees and the lower half of the body.

Loss of cartilage: In people with arthritis, their joints tend to be noisier than those without. This is often due to a lack of cartilage, which causes the bones to rub against each other more and thus make more noise. This cause is usually present in many older people, as cartilage naturally decreases with age, regardless of arthritis or not.

why does it feel good

When bones crack, it feels good because, in most cases, the cracking or popping sound relieves tension in the surrounding muscles, tendons, or ligaments. It’s similar to a good stretch in the morning – your body adjusts and relaxes into a new position.

How can I prevent my bones from breaking?

Some people may feel uncomfortable about the crackling sounds and may want to try to improve them.

The best tip for this is to exercise and exercise. As well as strengthening your muscles. It’s not a guaranteed method to stop the popping noises, but it can help and you may see improvement, especially if the noise bothers you.

You know that feeling when you first stand up and stretch after sitting for too long and hear a symphony of pops and pops in your back, neck and elsewhere? It feels good doesn’t it? But what’s behind all the popping? Should you be concerned? Generally no. If you “crack” your back, nothing will crack, splinter or break. There’s even a technical term for it: crepitation. Spinal manipulation, or an “adjustment,” can be performed by yourself or by a professional such as a chiropractor or other joint and spine specialist. Let’s look at why backs make that “cracking” sound, some downsides to customizing your back, and how to do it for the benefits.

A Look at the Spine Before we get into how back cracking works, let’s talk a little about the anatomy of your spine. The spine is made up of several major components: Spinal cord: The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that connects your brain to nerves throughout your body.

The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that connects your brain to nerves throughout your body. Meninges: These are membranes around the spinal cord and brain that absorb shock to the spine. They contain a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that performs many other functions.

These are membranes around the spinal cord and brain that absorb shock to the spine. They contain a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that performs many other functions. Spine: The spine, also called the vertebral column, is made up of 33 vertically stacked pieces of bone called vertebrae that run from just below your skull to your tailbone (coccyx). Each vertebra can move independently, keeping your back flexible. Each vertebra is separated from the next by soft intervertebral discs. These discs are filled with a jelly-like fluid called the nucleus pulposus. This provides a cushion between the vertebrae so they don’t bump or scrape each other. Now that you have a good basic understanding of the spine, let’s move on to what happens when you adjust your back.

What happens if the back “cracks”? Theory #1: Synovial Fluid and Pressure The most common theory is that when a joint is set, gas is released – no, not that kind of gas. Here’s a process many experts believe occurs: When you crack your back, squishy capsules on the outer edges of the vertebrae around joints called facet joints are stretched. By stretching these capsules, the synovial fluid within them has more room to move, reducing pressure on your back joints and muscles and moving your facet joints. When the pressure is released, the synovial fluid becomes gaseous, creating the popping, popping, or snapping sound. This rapid change of state is called boiling or cavitation. Theory #2: Other Gases and Pressure An alternative explanation also involves gas. Some experts believe that gases like nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen build up between your joints over time, especially when your joints are misaligned and swollen from poor posture, such as when you have a bad posture. B. by sitting hunched over or sitting for a long time. When you stretch the joints or move in a certain way, the gas is released. why does it feel good This pressure relief is reportedly why the back adjustment feels so good for many people. Back tears also cause endorphins to be released around the corrected area. Endorphins are chemicals produced by the pituitary gland that are designed to relieve pain in your body, and they can make you feel super satisfied when you crack a joint. But another, less physiological and more psychological process may be at work here. A 2011 study suggests that you may associate the sound of a back crack with a positive sense of relief, especially when performed by a professional chiropractor. This also applies if nothing has actually happened to the joint – a placebo effect at its finest.

What are the risks? Before we continue, remember that back adjustments done by you or a professional should not cause you much pain. Adjustments can be uncomfortable, especially if you stretch too far or if you’re not used to the feeling of a chiropractor manipulating your joints. But you shouldn’t feel any intense, sharp, or unbearable pain. Here are some possible risks of improperly adjusting your back: If you crack your back too fast or too hard, nerves in or near your spine can become pinched. A pinched nerve can hurt. A lot of. And some pinched nerves can stay pinched and limit your mobility until you get them checked out and treated by a professional.

in or near your spine. A pinched nerve can hurt. A lot of. And some pinched nerves can stay pinched and limit your mobility until you get them checked out and treated by a professional. When you crack your back vigorously, you can also strain or tear the muscles in and around your back, including your neck muscles at the top of your spine and your hip muscles at the bottom. Tight muscles can be difficult or painful to move, and serious muscle injuries may require surgery.

in and around your back, including your neck muscles near the top of your spine and your hip muscles near the bottom. Tight muscles can be difficult or painful to move, and serious muscle injuries may require surgery. Cracking your back frequently over time can stretch the ligaments of the back. This permanent stretching is called perpetual instability. This increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis with age.

This permanent stretching is called perpetual instability. This increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis with age. Cracking your back too hard or too hard can injure blood vessels. This can be dangerous because there are many important vessels running up and down your back, many of which connect to your brain. One potential complication is blood clotting, which can cause stroke, aneurysms, or other brain injury.

How To Do It Safely The surest way to crack your back yourself is to stretch your back muscles. Many experts recommend yoga or Pilates under the guidance of a trained professional for best results, but you can also just do a few back exercises at home to quickly adjust. Some of these exercises can also help relieve chronic back pain or increase your range of motion if you do them consistently. There are several ways to do this that you can make part of your daily routine. Try one or more of these and see which ones work best for you. Knees to chest Lie on your back and use your hands to pull your knees toward your chest, one leg at a time. Relax your back and neck in the stretch as you pull with your arms. Repeat 2-3 times. Try this movement twice a day. Hand placement variations include: Place your hand on your knee, below the kneecap

Hold on to the back of your thigh behind your knee

Hook your leg over your forearm. Lower Back Rotation Lie on your back and raise your knees so they are bent. Keep your shoulders still and move your hips to the side so your knees touch the floor. Hold this position for 10 seconds or for 2 deep breaths in and out. Slowly return your knees to their previous position and repeat the exercise in the opposite direction. Do this 2-3 times, at least twice a day. Bridge Stretch Lie on your back. Bring your heels back towards your butt so your knees are pointing up. Press your feet into the floor and lift your pelvis up so your body is in a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Another version of this, as shown above, is to elevate your feet; Instead of pressing your feet into the floor, place them against a wall and perform the same pelvic lift. This provides different leverage and stretch for your back. It can put more pressure on your upper back or shoulders. Seated Lower Back Rotation While seated, bring your left leg over your right leg. Place your right elbow on your left knee and then twist your torso to the left. Hold this position for 10 seconds or 3 breaths and then return to your normal position. Repeat on the opposite side with your right leg over your left leg and rotate to the right. Do not attempt to manipulate individual back joints or discs yourself unless you are a professional chiropractor or licensed to adjust joints–doing so can result in injury or damage.

“Joint cracking” and “knuckle cracking” are an interesting and poorly understood phenomenon. There are many theories as to why joints crack or rupture, but the exact cause is simply not known.

Painless cracking of joints is usually not harmful. However, common sense would generally suggest that intentionally and repeatedly cracking one’s joints is not only potentially socially disruptive, but could also be physically annoying if it causes pain.

Cracking your knuckles has not been shown to be harmful or beneficial. More specifically, cracking your knuckles does not cause arthritis.

The joints can “pop” from a vacuum that temporarily draws nitrogen gas into the joint, e.g. B. when knuckles are “cracked”. This is not harmful. “Cracking” sounds can also be heard when tendons snap across tissue due to minor adjustments in their slideways. This can occur with age as muscle mass and action change.

If the popping is accompanied by pain, there could be underlying abnormalities in the joint structures, such as: B. loose cartilage or injured ligaments. Some people with arthritis (joint inflammation, usually painful), bursitis, or tendinitis notice “cracking” sounds due to tearing of irregular, swollen tissue.

Overview What is a Chiropractic Adjustment? A chiropractic adjustment is a therapeutic treatment in which a licensed chiropractor uses their hands or special instruments to manipulate joints in your body. This treatment is also called spinal manipulation or joint manipulation. A chiropractic adjustment can help relieve pain, correct your body’s alignment, and how your body functions physically. Chiropractic adjustments provide treatment that complements the traditional medical care you receive. Who is a Chiropractor? A chiropractor treats many disorders of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Think of a chiropractor as a doctor who attends to any type of muscle, bone, or joint pain or dysfunction. The most common reasons for a chiropractic adjustment are: Lower back pain.

neck pain.

Muscle aches.

Headache. In addition, chiropractors can treat musculoskeletal pain anywhere in your body: in the head and jaw, shoulders, elbows and wrists, hips and pelvis, and knees and ankles. What Does a Chiropractor Do? Chiropractors treat aches, pains, creaks and strains. If you have a problem affecting your musculoskeletal system, a chiropractor can offer alternative treatments that don’t require a prescription of medication. Treatment a chiropractor can provide includes: Adjustments: Gently realign joints to reduce pain and increase range of motion.

Gently realigns joints to reduce pain and increase range of motion. Soft Tissue Therapy: To relax tight muscles, relieve spasms and release tension in the connective tissue that surrounds each muscle (fascia).

: To relax tight muscles, relieve spasms and relieve tension in the connective tissues that surround each muscle (fascia). Exercises and stretches: To restore and maintain joint stability and mobility.

: To restore and maintain joint stability and mobility. Joint Tightening/Taping (Kinesio Taping): To help a sprained joint or muscle heal.

To help a sprained joint or muscle heal. Referrals to integrative medicine experts: For guidance on diet and nutrition to reduce inflammation and/or promote healthy eating to help manage weight. What Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Treat/Manage? Each person seeking a chiropractic adjustment has a unique reason for their appointment, but all chiropractic adjustments treat your musculoskeletal system. Some people choose to have a chiropractic adjustment when they have the following conditions: Arthritis.

Regular headaches.

Healing after an accident or whiplash.

Joint pain and dysfunction.

Lower back pain.

neck pain.

Sciatica.

Stiff muscles or muscle pain. Chiropractors not only make sure your joints are moving properly, but that your surrounding muscles are working as well. Why is a chiropractic adjustment performed? Chiropractic adjustments focus on relieving symptoms affecting the musculoskeletal system. This can be the treatment of pain, muscle stiffness or chronic conditions. Some people choose to have a chiropractic adjustment when they want an alternative form of treatment that does not involve the use of prescription drugs. How common are chiropractic adjustments? Chiropractic adjustments are the most common alternative treatment option in the United States. Who Can Receive a Chiropractic Adjustment? A chiropractic adjustment is an effective treatment option for all ages, both children and adults. The most common age range for someone seeking chiropractic care is between 45 and 64 years of age. It is more common for people assigned a female at birth to see a chiropractor than people assigned a male at birth. You should be screened prior to any chiropractic adjustment to ensure you are a good candidate for chiropractic care. If chiropractic care is not appropriate for your condition, your chiropractor will refer you to another healthcare provider to help.

Procedure Details What Happens Before a Chiropractic Adjustment? At your first visit, your chiropractor will discuss your medical history and perform a physical exam. If necessary, he will order diagnostic imaging tests to learn more about your musculoskeletal system, including: X-rays.

Computed tomography (CT) scan.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. After learning more about your symptoms and the possible causes of your discomfort, your chiropractor will develop a unique treatment plan based on the findings of your exam and the results of your tests. What Happens During a Chiropractic Adjustment? During a chiropractic adjustment, your chiropractor will provide treatment uniquely tailored to your needs. You lie face down on a chiropractic table, which allows certain parts of your body (divided into segments) to rise slightly higher than the rest, which helps your chiropractor apply pressure to a specific area. Your chiropractor will use their hands or small instruments to apply a quick, controlled force (amount of pressure) to a joint, or they will gently stretch your joints beyond their normal range of motion. This helps align the vertebrae in your spine if they were slightly off-center and releases gases trapped in your joints. What is the popping noise I hear during a chiropractic adjustment? You may feel and hear a pop or pop during a chiropractic adjustment. These are gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide that are released from your joints. Gas gets trapped in small cavities in your joints as you move and stretch. While this gas release may be more noticeable during a chiropractic adjustment, you experience a similar sound when you crack your knuckles. Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt? Chiropractic adjustments cause little to no pain during a procedure, much like you might feel after a workout. You will not experience severe pain during a chiropractic adjustment. Your chiropractor applies a controlled force (pressure) to your joints, which creates a cracking or popping sound as the gas leaves your joints. While this may sound painful, it doesn’t feel painful. What happens after a chiropractic adjustment? After a chiropractic adjustment, you may feel mild pain or have very mild pain in areas of your body that your chiropractor worked on. This feeling usually goes away within 24 hours and rarely affects people who see a chiropractor regularly. After your appointment, your chiropractor may recommend “homework” to allow you to extend your therapy after an adjustment. These recommendations may include: exercises and stretches.

Correct ergonomics to improve your posture.

Freezing/heat therapy or topical analgesics.

Advice on nutrition, diet, weight or general health.

Ways to manage stress and relax muscles.

Electrical muscle stimulation with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS).

Risks/Benefits What are the benefits of a chiropractic adjustment? There are several benefits of a chiropractic adjustment including: Helps minimize migraines and neck-related headaches.

Improves your posture.

Reduces pain and improves range of motion in your spine and other joints.

Reduces the symptoms of chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Treats minor neck or spine injuries, particularly whiplash. What are the side effects or complications of a chiropractic adjustment? You may feel tired or sore after a chiropractic adjustment. Some people may experience a mild headache after a chiropractic adjustment. These side effects are temporary. In rare cases, chiropractic care can lead to serious complications, such as: E.g. herniated disc.

Pinched nerves in the lower spine (cauda equina syndrome).

Stroke. You are at a higher risk of side effects or complications if you have fittings made by people who are not trained and licensed. Only a licensed, professional chiropractor should treat you.

Recovery and Outlook What is the recovery time for a chiropractic adjustment? Many people feel relief from symptoms almost immediately after a chiropractic adjustment. You may feel sore for 24 hours after the treatment. The goal of a chiropractic adjustment is to restore your health over the long term, rather than alleviate your symptoms in the short term. Your chiropractor will encourage you to find new ways to position your body at your desk, when you are standing and moving, and when you are in bed. They might also recommend incorporating stretching exercises into your daily routine. These long-term tips can help prevent future problems. It is important that you tell your GP about any pain you have, whether recent or chronic (longer than three months). Your GP can rule out potentially serious issues that need treatment beyond a chiropractic adjustment.

After sitting in the same position at your desk all day, you’re ready to get up, stretch, and move. Hands on hips, spine arched, you stretch out and…

*Crack*

Your back just split open.

It’s an oddly satisfying experience, especially as the sound it produces doesn’t seem exactly great. Those cracks and pops may make you wonder if cracking your back is bad for you.

Why do joints burst and crack?

The exact mechanism that explains what happens in your joints when they crack and burst is not fully understood. However, the general consensus is that the sounds are coming from the spine releasing gas that has accumulated in the joints.

One theory is that these gas bubbles form naturally in the fluid that lubricates your joints over time. Another reason is that stretching your back puts pressure on the fluid in your joints and creates steam-filled pockets in your joints.

“Regardless of why it’s there, stretching or trying to crack your back will release this gas, sometimes resulting in an audible pop or pop,” says Dr. Kenneth Palmer, an orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist.

Is it bad to crack your back?

Whether it’s an unintended consequence of the occasional spontaneous stretch or an intentional thing you do on a regular basis, back cracking has its risks.

“If you’re gently stretching your back and it cracks or pops naturally, it probably isn’t bad for you or will cause long-term damage,” says Dr. palmers “But when you try to crack your back with powerful, quick movements, or when you feel like you need to crack your back on a regular basis, that’s when we start to worry.”

Forcibly and misaligning your spine can result in:

A pinched nerve

joint inflammation

muscle strain

blood vessel injury

“Because it stretches ligaments, cracking your back could also lead to joint instability over time if you do it often enough — which in turn could increase your risk of osteoarthritis,” says Dr. palmers “Your back will crack from time to time, but it’s best not to try it yourself and make it a habit, especially for children and teenagers.”

Does it help with cracking your back too? In some cases maybe not. One study suggests that cracking may simply trigger the placebo effect — that is, when a treatment benefit is perceived even though none is achieved.

Other joint tears are mixed. For example, cracking your neck is also not a good habit, as it can regularly lead to inflammation around important nerves. There’s also a risk of misaligning your neck, similar to those above, if you crack your back incorrectly.

There’s better news for people who like to pop their ankles. While a well-meaning adult probably told you not to indulge in this habit as a kid, the truth is that cracking your knuckles probably isn’t as bad for you as urban legend has it.

Regardless of which joint cracks or cracks, however, it should never result in pain.

“If you experience discomfort or pain after breaking your back or any other joint, see your doctor. It could be a sign of a bigger problem that needs attention,” warns Dr. palmers

This will prevent joints from breaking

As previously mentioned, the natural popping and popping you hear in your back from time to time isn’t a huge cause for concern and doesn’t necessarily need to be stopped.

However, it could be a sign that your back muscles are tight, which means you could benefit from light stretches.

dr Palmer recommends gently loosening your joints with the following back stretches:

Seated lower back twist

Rotate the lower back while lying down

Stretch knees to chest

stretch upwards

bridge route

You can also try putting a heating pad on your back, as heat can help reduce joint stiffness and pain.

“Importantly, if you’re regularly trying to crack your back because it feels tight or hurts, it’s probably time to see a doctor — especially if gentle stretching isn’t providing relief,” says Dr. palmers “There are a variety of reasons why your back may feel tight, and knowing the exact cause is important to getting long-lasting relief.”

In addition, Dr. Palmer notes that cracking your back is not the right self-care solution for any of the various causes of persistent back pain.

You know that feeling when you first stand up and stretch after sitting for too long and hear a symphony of pops and pops in your back, neck and elsewhere? It feels good doesn’t it? But what’s behind all the popping? Should you be concerned? Generally no. If you “crack” your back, nothing will crack, splinter or break. There’s even a technical term for it: crepitation. Spinal manipulation, or an “adjustment,” can be performed by yourself or by a professional such as a chiropractor or other joint and spine specialist. Let’s look at why backs make that “cracking” sound, some downsides to customizing your back, and how to do it for the benefits.

A Look at the Spine Before we get into how back cracking works, let’s talk a little about the anatomy of your spine. The spine is made up of several major components: Spinal cord: The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that connects your brain to nerves throughout your body.

The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that connects your brain to nerves throughout your body. Meninges: These are membranes around the spinal cord and brain that absorb shock to the spine. They contain a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that performs many other functions.

These are membranes around the spinal cord and brain that absorb shock to the spine. They contain a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that performs many other functions. Spine: The spine, also called the vertebral column, is made up of 33 vertically stacked pieces of bone called vertebrae that run from just below your skull to your tailbone (coccyx). Each vertebra can move independently, keeping your back flexible. Each vertebra is separated from the next by soft intervertebral discs. These discs are filled with a jelly-like fluid called the nucleus pulposus. This provides a cushion between the vertebrae so they don’t bump or scrape each other. Now that you have a good basic understanding of the spine, let’s move on to what happens when you adjust your back.

What happens if the back “cracks”? Theory #1: Synovial Fluid and Pressure The most common theory is that when a joint is set, gas is released – no, not that kind of gas. Here’s a process many experts believe occurs: When you crack your back, squishy capsules on the outer edges of the vertebrae around joints called facet joints are stretched. By stretching these capsules, the synovial fluid within them has more room to move, reducing pressure on your back joints and muscles and moving your facet joints. When the pressure is released, the synovial fluid becomes gaseous, creating the popping, popping, or snapping sound. This rapid change of state is called boiling or cavitation. Theory #2: Other Gases and Pressure An alternative explanation also involves gas. Some experts believe that gases like nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen build up between your joints over time, especially when your joints are misaligned and swollen from poor posture, such as when you have a bad posture. B. by sitting hunched over or sitting for a long time. When you stretch the joints or move in a certain way, the gas is released. why does it feel good This pressure relief is reportedly why the back adjustment feels so good for many people. Back tears also cause endorphins to be released around the corrected area. Endorphins are chemicals produced by the pituitary gland that are designed to relieve pain in your body, and they can make you feel super satisfied when you crack a joint. But another, less physiological and more psychological process may be at work here. A 2011 study suggests that you may associate the sound of a back crack with a positive sense of relief, especially when performed by a professional chiropractor. This also applies if nothing has actually happened to the joint – a placebo effect at its finest.

What are the risks? Before we continue, remember that back adjustments done by you or a professional should not cause you much pain. Adjustments can be uncomfortable, especially if you stretch too far or if you’re not used to the feeling of a chiropractor manipulating your joints. But you shouldn’t feel any intense, sharp, or unbearable pain. Here are some possible risks of improperly adjusting your back: If you crack your back too fast or too hard, nerves in or near your spine can become pinched. A pinched nerve can hurt. A lot of. And some pinched nerves can stay pinched and limit your mobility until you get them checked out and treated by a professional.

in or near your spine. A pinched nerve can hurt. A lot of. And some pinched nerves can stay pinched and limit your mobility until you get them checked out and treated by a professional. When you crack your back vigorously, you can also strain or tear the muscles in and around your back, including your neck muscles at the top of your spine and your hip muscles at the bottom. Tight muscles can be difficult or painful to move, and serious muscle injuries may require surgery.

in and around your back, including your neck muscles near the top of your spine and your hip muscles near the bottom. Tight muscles can be difficult or painful to move, and serious muscle injuries may require surgery. Cracking your back frequently over time can stretch the ligaments of the back. This permanent stretching is called perpetual instability. This increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis with age.

This permanent stretching is called perpetual instability. This increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis with age. Cracking your back too hard or too hard can injure blood vessels. This can be dangerous because there are many important vessels running up and down your back, many of which connect to your brain. One potential complication is blood clotting, which can cause stroke, aneurysms, or other brain injury.

How To Do It Safely The surest way to crack your back yourself is to stretch your back muscles. Many experts recommend yoga or Pilates under the guidance of a trained professional for best results, but you can also just do a few back exercises at home to quickly adjust. Some of these exercises can also help relieve chronic back pain or increase your range of motion if you do them consistently. There are several ways to do this that you can make part of your daily routine. Try one or more of these and see which ones work best for you. Knees to chest Lie on your back and use your hands to pull your knees toward your chest, one leg at a time. Relax your back and neck in the stretch as you pull with your arms. Repeat 2-3 times. Try this movement twice a day. Hand placement variations include: Place your hand on your knee, below the kneecap

Hold on to the back of your thigh behind your knee

Hook your leg over your forearm. Lower Back Rotation Lie on your back and raise your knees so they are bent. Keep your shoulders still and move your hips to the side so your knees touch the floor. Hold this position for 10 seconds or for 2 deep breaths in and out. Slowly return your knees to their previous position and repeat the exercise in the opposite direction. Do this 2-3 times, at least twice a day. Bridge Stretch Lie on your back. Bring your heels back towards your butt so your knees are pointing up. Press your feet into the floor and lift your pelvis up so your body is in a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Another version of this, as shown above, is to elevate your feet; Instead of pressing your feet into the floor, place them against a wall and perform the same pelvic lift. This provides different leverage and stretch for your back. It can put more pressure on your upper back or shoulders. Seated Lower Back Rotation While seated, bring your left leg over your right leg. Place your right elbow on your left knee and then twist your torso to the left. Hold this position for 10 seconds or 3 breaths and then return to your normal position. Repeat on the opposite side with your right leg over your left leg and rotate to the right. Do not attempt to manipulate individual back joints or discs yourself unless you are a professional chiropractor or licensed to adjust joints–doing so can result in injury or damage.

We all know the cracking sound that sometimes comes from joints or bones. For some, it’s a cracking sensation, for others, it feels like a pop or pop.

Most of us don’t feel pain from broken bones, it’s just part of our body and part of our joints and ligaments. In fact, many of us like – we like the feeling! For many people, the “popping” or “popping” can help relieve pain temporarily and may even help release tension in the area.

While in the past people scared others by saying that broken bones lead to conditions like arthritis, nothing has been scientifically proven as such, and it’s unlikely to be the case.

Many joints in the body can crack and burst — but the most common are:

Ankle,

Finger,

Knee,

hips,

toes,

Neck,

The back.

While most of the time you will experience the sensation of bone cracking at home or alone, it is possible to pay a professional to strategically crack and align your joints. This is typically most popular for the neck and back and is commonly performed by chiropractors.

Cracking your fingers or toes at home is relatively risk-free, but you should never attempt to crack your neck or back at home or alone. Yes, a cracked back can help relieve pain and tension—but your neck and back (due to the complexity of the joints and bones) will need professional attention in these cases.

Should I be concerned if my bones break badly?

It can be a little disconcerting to hear your bones cracking constantly, but rest assured it’s relatively normal. As long as it doesn’t cause you any discomfort or pain, it’s usually not a cause for concern.

Be mindful of any swelling or redness, though—because if any of these things accompany the tearing, you might want to see a doctor and get a proper exam.

Just approach the cracking with instinct. If this makes you feel pain or discomfort, then something may be wrong. If your joints don’t look regular, then something might be wrong.

What causes the “clicking” noise?

It’s important to understand that when your joints make that cracking sound, it’s not actually your bones that are cracking or splitting. The cracking is only related to the sound it makes, not the actual action or cause.

However, there are a few reasons why your body might be making those cracking noises – and you can read more about them below:

Escaping Gases: Probably the most common cause of this noise is gas bubbles escaping from your joints, making small popping noises. The gas comes from the fluid in your joints (which helps the joints move smoothly and pain-free).

Movement of Joints, Tendons and Ligaments: When you move any joint in your body, it affects the ligaments and tendons (big or small). When a position changes, you may hear a snapping sound as the tendon or ligament snaps back into place. This noise is most common in the ankles and knees and the lower half of the body.

Loss of cartilage: In people with arthritis, their joints tend to be noisier than those without. This is often due to a lack of cartilage, which causes the bones to rub against each other more and thus make more noise. This cause is usually present in many older people, as cartilage naturally decreases with age, regardless of arthritis or not.

why does it feel good

When bones crack, it feels good because, in most cases, the cracking or popping sound relieves tension in the surrounding muscles, tendons, or ligaments. It’s similar to a good stretch in the morning – your body adjusts and relaxes into a new position.

How can I prevent my bones from breaking?

Some people may feel uncomfortable about the crackling sounds and may want to try to improve them.

The best tip for this is to exercise and exercise. As well as strengthening your muscles. It’s not a guaranteed method to stop the popping noises, but it can help and you may see improvement, especially if the noise bothers you.