At one point or another, most people will try to self-crack their back with a particularly intense stretch or twist of the spine. However, attempting to do this without the work of a chiropractor is not the best course of action for lasting relief; the spine and neck are complex and surprisingly delicate mechanisms. Here’s what you should know about self-cracking, including what it is and why it should be avoided.

What Is Self-Cracking?

Self-cracking is any movement that causes built-up gases in the joints to be released. This release is most often associated with a popping or cracking sound, which is where the term "crack your back" comes from. It's also common to "crack" knuckles and other joints.

When a person feels as if they need to crack their back, their body is trying to send them a message; somewhere along the spine or neck, there is a misalignment. An imbalance in the system can be an indicator of any number of health issues, ranging from stiffness or pain to permanent structural changes and serious illness.

Why Doesn't It Last?

Anyone who has ever self-cracked their back knows that the relief is not long lasting. If anything, the pain or stiffness only subsides for a few seconds or minutes. The act of self-cracking will naturally stimulate nerves and the release of certain pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body. However, you are only treating the symptoms of pain or stiffness—not the cause itself—so any relief will only be temporary.

Why Should You Avoid Self-Cracking?

As any chiropractor can attest, there is a specific science to a chiropractic adjustment. Adjustments target the source of pain and seek to remove the cause—not just alleviate symptoms. This results in more lasting relief. Also, self-cracking can force the body to increase mobility when it may not be structurally prepared to do so. Overexertion can then cause an already-taxed system to break down even further, causing more pain. Self-cracking your back could be making the problem worse in exchange for an all-too-brief respite from discomfort.

Instead of self-cracking, let a chiropractor get to the root of the issue and help you find a more permanent solution. Since 1979, Randy R. Collins, D.C., has been providing Honolulu, HI, with back and neck pain relief; he also offers treatment for a number of other conditions, including sciatica, herniated discs, and sports injuries. Call (808) 839-7474 today to schedule an exam by an experienced chiropractor.