Cracking your back or neck might offer a quick sense of relief and that satisfying popping sound, but is it really safe? Dr. William Kemo, a neurosurgeon at the Virginia Spine Institute, explained to Fox News Digital that when you twist or bend your spine, the pressure within the joint changes, leading to a release of gas bubbles and that audible crack.
People often do it out of habit or to alleviate tension or stiffness temporarily, according to Dr. Kemo. Tori Hartline, a chiropractor at Sunlife Chiropractic, pointed out that while cracking can release endorphins for temporary relief, it doesn’t address the root cause of tension.
Hartline warned that self-cracking can even result in injury. She emphasized that chiropractors are trained to identify restricted areas in the spine and perform specific adjustments to improve range of motion. When someone cracks their own back or neck, they’re usually targeting hypermobile segments rather than the restricted areas, which can lead to further problems.
The consequences of cracking your back or neck can range from joint hypermobility to sprains, strains, or even fractures if too much pressure is applied, cautioned Hartline. Dr. Kemo echoed these concerns, noting that it can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the spine, potentially leading to muscle and ligament strain or exacerbating existing issues.
