Do you ever stand up from a chair or stretch your arms and hear that familiar cracking sound? Joint popping is common, especially after sitting for prolonged periods. You might be curious or concerned about why this happens. This guide breaks down the cause of joint popping in everyday life and during chiropractic care.

The Cause of Popping Joints

As you age, your joints lose natural cartilage, causing them to make a noise when they rub together. The muscles or tendons can also rub against the bone, making a popping sound during repetitive motion. The sound can also happen when nitrogen bubbles escape from the joints upon movement. This is particularly common in the knuckles. However, despite popular belief, knuckle cracking does not cause arthritis. If your joint popping is accompanied by pain and swelling, see a doctor; it could be a sign of an underlying condition. Otherwise, the sound is generally harmless.

Why Joints Pop During Chiropractic Care

Even if your joints don’t often pop in everyday life, you might hear them pop during chiropractic care. When the chiropractor gently adjusts your spine, the spinal facet joint stretches slightly. This releases gas bubbles in your spine and causes the popping noise. After treatment, spinal joints generally feel loose.

Always undergo adjustments by a professional rather than trying to pop joints at home. A chiropractor knows how to adjust the back and neck gently, without causing injury. If you try to adjust your spine at home, you could hurt the muscles, tendons, or spine itself. Experts also know which sounds are normal and which may require a medical diagnosis.

If your joints pop or feel stiff, the professionals at Team Health Chiropractic can help you feel your best. Located in St Louis, MO, this office provides exemplary chiropractic care for injury recovery or general comfort. They also offer electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to help with rehabilitation. Whether you were recently in a car accident or are living with back pain, these chiropractors will perform a thorough assessment to identify your unique needs. To view a full list of their services, visit them online. Call (314) 567-9990 to make an appointment.