As a chiropractor I often have people come in and tell me something like “I usually just adjust myself but this time I can’t get it.”  I usually ask them to give a demonstration of their technique which usually scares me.

The reason it scares me? Well when you pop your neck (if you do, please stop) you stretch the joint involved to it’s physiologic limit. At this point it pops, which is actually just nitrogen gas escaping the joint.  Yes, it feels better temporarily but the actual problem is not fixed.

Over time this repetitive stretching of the joint ligaments will lead to a decreased ability to stabilize the neck or back which in the long run leads to chronic neck or back pain due to instability.  I’m talking about years and years before this happens so it’s not like your going to be in dire straights tomorrow but then again smokers don’t get lung cancer from the 20th cigarette either.

If you have a joint in your neck that feels like it needs to crack its a sign from your body that something is wrong in that area. It may be a minor problem that just needs rest or it could be a chronic misalignment of a joint that needs chiropractic care. What it doesn’t need is a forced “pop” by stretching the joints too far. So if you are experiencing this feeling on a regular basis call us and get it fixed. Our 4 Corners office number is 715-246-7500 and the Glenwood City office is 715-265-7500 or you can contact us via Facebook.