Is it Bad to Crack Your Own Back & Neck?
We’ve all done it at some point… maybe we’ve asked a friend to crack our back, or twisted our neck until it made a satisfying “pop” sound. Sure, it feels good and provides a sense of relief, but is it good for us?
Contrary to what many people think, cracking your own back or neck can be very dangerous! Our bodies are very complex, and cracking your own joints on your own can lead to injuries, including damage to the spinal cord or nerves.
If you’re experiencing neck and back pain, you should always work with an experienced chiropractor, like us here at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness! Our team of chiropractors has the years of experience needed to safely make adjustments that will help you long-term, not harm you! Give us a call today!
Why We Feel the Need to “Crack” or Pop Ourselves
The urge to crack or pop our joints is very common, we all may feel a tightness or discomfort in our joints that make us instinctually want to twist and pop them. This “pop” is due to the release of gas bubbles in the joints.
When we crack a joint, we stretch the joint capsule, allowing gas bubbles to escape and relieve the pressure. However, it’s not always safe to do it yourself.
Is it Bad to Crack Your Own Back and Neck?
While cracking your own back and neck may feel good at the moment, it can be truly harmful in the long run. The force used to crack your own joints can be too much, leading to issues such as:
- Potential damage to the spinal cord or nerves
- Exacerbation of existing joint or spinal conditions
- Reduced range of motion and flexibility over time
- Potential muscle strains or sprains from improper technique or excessive force
- Increased risk of headaches and neck pain
Our bodies are incredibly complicated, especially when it comes to our spinal cords. See, your spine is intertwined with nerves and veins, which can be affected by misalignment or injury.
Why Visiting a Chiropractor is a Much Better Idea
Chiropractors are trained professionals who can manipulate your joints safely and effectively. The chiropractic doctors at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness are also trained to identify the root cause of your joint pain and provide a customized treatment plan to alleviate it.
We aren’t just chiropractors either! Our doctors offer physical therapy, IV/Vitamin drips, and other wellness-related services to help you achieve optimal health and wellness.
What You Can Do Yourself Safely Instead
If you’re experiencing joint discomfort and can’t make it to a chiropractor right away, there are some things you can do yourself to ease the discomfort safely, such as:
- Gentle stretching exercises
- Applying heat or ice to the affected area
- Maintaining good posture to avoid aggravating the joint
- Avoiding activities that exacerbate the discomfort
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
Gentle stretching of the neck can be helpful, but not by rotating the neck. Here’s a quick stretch that is calm, safe, and may even lead to a safe pop/pressure release:
- Sit or stand up straight, with your shoulders relaxed.
- Tilt your head to the right, bringing your right ear towards your right shoulder.
- Place your right hand gently on the left side of your head and apply gentle pressure to deepen the stretch.
- Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds, then release.
- Repeat on the other side, tilting your head to the left and using your left hand to apply gentle pressure.
This stretch helps to gently elongate the muscles in the neck, promoting an increased range of motion and flexibility. It’s important to avoid any sudden or jerky movements when stretching your neck, and not to rotate your neck as doing this, as any additional movements can cause injury or aggravate existing conditions.
Experience the Benefits of Chiropractic Care at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness Today!
If you’re experiencing joint discomfort, it’s best to visit a chiropractor who can safely manipulate your joints and provide a customized treatment plan. However, if you can’t make it to a chiropractor right away, there are some safe things you can do yourself to alleviate discomfort.
Remember, it’s essential to take care of your joints and avoid potential long-term harm by seeking professional help when needed. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced chiropractors at Gulf Coast Rehabilitation & Wellness. We can help you achieve optimal joint health and provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
BY: Gulf Coast Manager
Chiropractic Care
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