What is that cracking sound when you get adjusted?
Dr. Park applying a prone cervical (neck) adjustment
By Andy Park DC,
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Specialist.
What is that cracking sound when you get adjusted?
When you get adjusted by a chiropractor, the cracking sound you hear is often referred to as "joint cavitation." This sound occurs when a quick, controlled force is applied to a joint, causing a release of gas bubbles from the synovial fluid within the joint. Here’s a more detailed explanation of what causes the sound and the benefits of chiropractic adjustments:
The Cracking Sound Explained
Joint Cavitation:
Synovial Fluid: Joints contain synovial fluid, which lubricates and nourishes the cartilage and joint surfaces.
Gas Bubbles: This fluid contains dissolved gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. When a chiropractor applies a quick, precise force to a joint, it can cause a rapid change in pressure within the joint capsule.
Cavitation: The sudden drop in pressure allows these gases to form bubbles, which then collapse or "pop," producing the cracking sound.
Not Bone Cracking:
It’s important to note that the sound is not the bones themselves cracking or breaking. It’s simply the release of gas within the joint fluid.
Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments
Pain Relief:
Back and Neck Pain: Chiropractic adjustments can relieve pain in the back and neck by restoring ideal function in the spine, reducing nerve irritation, and improving joint function.
Headaches: Adjustments can help reduce tension headaches and migraines by alleviating tension in the neck and upper back.
Improved Mobility:
Joint Function: Adjustments can improve the range of motion and function of the joints, making it easier to perform daily activities.
Flexibility: By restoring proper joint movement, chiropractic care can enhance overall flexibility and movement patterns.
Enhanced Nervous System Function:
Overall Health: A well-functioning nervous system is crucial for overall health and well-being, as it controls and coordinates all bodily functions, and with that said, adjustments have been seen to improve axoplasmic flow or nerve function at a physiological level in areas where there are dysfunctions or pain.
Nervous System Performance: The adjustment has known to prime and excite the nervous system which in turn can potentially help prepare an individual for competitive activity.
Better Posture:
Postural Awareness: Chiropractors often provide advice on posture and ergonomics to help maintain proper alignment outside of adjustments.
“Good Posture”: While there is no such thing as a “bad” or “good” posture there is such a thing as ideal neutral posture when weight bearing, and in a upright position. That simply implies that your structures are stacked in such a way as to reduce the amount of strain on your supporting structures. With that said the best posture is one that is allowed to change.
Non-Invasive and Drug-Free:
Natural Approach: Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive alternative to pain relief and improved function without the need for drugs or surgery.
Preventive Care: Regular adjustments can serve as preventive care, helping to maintain spinal health and prevent future issues.
Improved Athletic Performance:
Injury Prevention: By maintaining proper alignment and joint function, chiropractic care can reduce the risk of sports injuries.
Performance Enhancement: Athletes may experience improved performance due to enhanced flexibility, range of motion, and overall bodily function.
Relief from Other Conditions:
Sciatica: Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with sciatica by reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Arthritis: While not a cure, chiropractic care can help manage the symptoms of arthritis by improving joint mobility and reducing pain.
To summarize everything that we just covered, the cracking sound during a chiropractic adjustment is caused by the release of gas bubbles from the synovial fluid within a joint, a phenomenon known as joint cavitation. This sound is a natural and harmless part of the adjustment process. The benefits of chiropractic adjustments are wide-ranging and include pain relief, improved mobility, enhanced nervous system function, better posture, a non-invasive approach to care, and improved athletic performance.
Regular chiropractic care can play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being by ensuring that the spine and joints function properly. If you’re considering chiropractic care, consult a licensed chiropractor to discuss your specific needs and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
We hope you found this article to be enlightening! If you’re an athlete or an active individual who is also experiencing an injury or want to improve your performance, then don’t wait any longer. Give us a call (773-296-2766) or text us at (773-692-0670) to book your FREE Discovery call or Movement Assessment today!
Do this next!
Share this Article with a Friend or Family member who has been dealing with a sports injury, pregnancy related pain or dysfunction, or any other type of physical issue (i.e. hip or knee pain, low back pain, shoulder pain etc.) We can help!
Call our office TODAY at (773) 296-2766 to book your New Patient appointment or schedule a free chat (discovery call) with us to see if we can help you out or if you have other questions about care or costs. You can book either by clicking here!
Keep an eye out for out next article!