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If you’ve ever considered visiting a chiropractor, you might wonder whether it’s safe to crack your back during an adjustment. Even though the sound could be loud, it’s nothing to be alarmed about—the following guide explains the mechanics of joint popping and how this relates to an adjustment.

What Causes the “Popping” Sound?

When you pop a joint in your spine or anyplace else, gas escapes from the layer of fluid that surrounds the joint. Rapidly changing the direction of your spine can also create a popping sound as the tendons snap back into place. As you get older, you’re more likely to experience more cracking—the cartilage in your joints degenerates with time, making those surfaces rougher. When ligaments stretch and move around joints with some wear-and-tear, there’s more friction, which can produce cracks or “creaking” sounds.

Is Cracking My Back Dangerous?

chiropractor-valley-chiropractic-clinicIn general, popping a joint isn’t dangerous. However, if you feel like you need to continuously crack your back because it hurts, this could indicate a musculoskeletal issue. If your back cracks often while you perform normal daily activities, you could have a condition called hypermobility, which is defined by an abnormally large range of motion.

People with arthritis or tendonitis might also experience pain when their joints crack because the tissues are swollen and shift into awkward positions. With repeat cracking, you can stretch joints too far, so you shouldn’t intentionally crack your back on your own. A chiropractor is specifically trained to guide your spine and joints back into alignment.

 

A chiropractor is your most trusted resource when it comes to spinal issues, so turn to the team at Valley Chiropractic Clinic if your back feels tight or painful. Located in Juneau, AK, they can address a variety of issues, including chronic back pain, sports injuries, and arthritis. They approach each patient differently, utilizing physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and more to achieve lasting results. To schedule a consultation with a chiropractor, call (907) 789-9549. You can learn more about their practice online and connect through Facebook for additional resources.

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