If your neck is sore or stiff, it can be instinctual to begin rolling it as a way of finding relief. You may feel better because of the stretching, but you may also hear popping or cracking sounds that come with a sense of relief, similar to cracking your knuckles. This sound is not your bones cracking but instead a release of air that has accumulated between your joints and ligaments, which is very common. However, this release is temporary, and the need to roll your neck may be a sign you should seek further treatment for neck pain.
The Mechanics of Rolling Your Neck
Your joints contain a substance called synovial fluid, which is a lubricant- think of grease applied to metal gears to help them operate smoothly and without friction. This fluid is made up of gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and oxygen. In the neck, there are joints along each side that form capsules, which can become full of gases. This leads to a restricted range of motion and potential pain.
Rolling your neck may loosen these capsules, allowing the synovial fluid to escape. This releasing of the bubbles makes a series of popping sounds which is most likely what you hear while rolling your neck- this process is also called cavitation. You should not hear this every time, as it takes time for the gases to build back up once they have been released.
Immediately after this release, you may notice less pressure and an increase in your range of motion, which is why many people find this an effective way of “fixing” whatever neck pain they are experiencing. However, it will likely occur again, requiring more cracking in the future.
Other Causes of Cracking in the Neck
While most cracking sounds are harmless, there are scenarios where they may indicate underlying issues beyond the simple release of gas bubbles. Here are some other potential answers to “Why does my neck crackle when I roll it?”
Arthritis
One cause of sounds during the movement of your joints is arthritis. With a condition like arthritis, the cartilage around your joints deteriorates and becomes rough, which can make noise more likely. In these cases, you might hear sounds repeatedly, even if there has not been enough time for gases to build up in your joints again. Unlike the temporary relief from cracking your neck, arthritis-related sounds typically do not result in an increased range of motion or a reduction in pressure.
Snapping Ligaments
Sounds in the neck area can also be caused by snapping ligaments. Ligaments and tendons are connective tissues that link your joints and bones. These can tighten and snap, causing a popping sound and a feeling like a slight displacement or realignment. Certain movements, stretches, or yoga poses are more likely to cause this sensation. While typically harmless, frequent snapping can indicate tight or imbalanced muscles that may benefit from professional treatment. If you’re wondering, “Why does my neck crack when I roll it?” snapping ligaments may be part of the answer.
Tendon Movement
Another source of crackle noise in the neck can be tendons moving over bony areas. Tendons, which connect muscles to bones, can sometimes shift their position and make a snapping sound as they move. This can happen during certain motions, like turning your head or neck rolling. While generally not a cause for concern, if your neck cracks every time you move it, you want to get that checked for any underlying issues.
Joint Instability
Joint instability, where the neck joints are too loose or misaligned, can also produce cracking sounds. This instability can result from issues including trauma, repetitive strain, or congenital conditions. If joint instability is the cause of cracking in your neck, you might experience additional symptoms like pain, weakness, or a feeling like the joint is “giving way.” Seeing your College Park doctor in these cases is important to prevent further damage and stabilize your neck properly.
Is Cracking My Neck Dangerous?
If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “Is it bad if I crack my neck?” you’re not alone. People ask us all the time if they should crack their neck. In most cases, rolling your neck to relieve the pressure is not harmful. As long as you are not doing it so forcefully that you cause damage and you are also stretching the neck, there is no concern. The relief from temporary pain can be worth it, and there may even be an associated release of endorphins that comes from the habit. Because the sound is simply air, you do not have to worry about hurting your neck further.
However, the consistent need to roll your neck because of bothersome pressure may indicate a deeper problem. While you may get temporary relief from the act, it will not address this underlying problem in the same way a chiropractor would. If you notice signs of arthritis or snapping ligaments, you should also be cautious before continuing.
Additionally, if you notice a sudden and uncharacteristic stiffness in the neck, avoid rolling it because it could worsen any strains on the muscle tissue. Should you crack your neck and feel pain, a sudden pop, or additional discomfort, you should resist doing it anymore and get in to see a physician.
Addressing Neck Pain
Cracking your own neck might offer temporary relief, but it’s not a recommended practice to replace seeing a doctor for neck pain or other related conditions. Cracking your own neck can lead to injuries or even make existing problems worse. Instead, seeking professional care from qualified healthcare providers can offer safer and more effective treatment options. Various specialists, including chiropractors, physical therapists, orthopedic doctors, and neurologists, can provide personalized treatment and care to address the root causes of your neck pain and promote long-term healing and wellness.
Chiropractor: Spinal Alignment and Pain Relief
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders through manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. They are trained to identify misalignments in the vertebrae and joints that may be contributing to neck pain and other issues. Chiropractors use controlled, sudden force to adjust the spine, which helps improve healthy functioning, alleviate pain, and promote the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
A chiropractor’s noninvasive treatment plan for neck pain often includes spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and exercises to strengthen the neck muscles. They may also offer lifestyle and ergonomic advice to prevent further issues. Unlike cracking your own neck, chiropractic care is performed with a thorough understanding of spinal mechanics, which ultimately reduces the risk of injury and provides you with a targeted approach to pain relief. If you often wonder, “Why does my neck crunch when I roll my head?” going to see a chiropractor is a good first step toward discovering the cause of discomfort.
Physical Therapist: Rehabilitation and Strengthening
Physical therapists are experts in how the body moves and functions. They use a range of techniques to help you recover from injuries, reduce pain, and improve physical functioning. Treatment from a physical therapist typically involves a combination of exercises to strengthen and stretch the neck muscles, manual therapy to improve joint mobility, and modalities like applying heat or ice to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapists also educate their patients on correct posture and ergonomic adjustments to prevent future pain. By addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of neck pain, physiotherapy provides a holistic approach to recovery.
Orthopedic Doctor: Medical and Surgical Interventions
Orthopedic doctors are medical specialists who focus on the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. When it comes to neck pain, an orthopedic doctor can offer a wide range of treatments depending on the cause and severity of your condition. They treat issues including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, fractures, and degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis.
An orthopedic doctor may recommend conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections to manage pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, they might recommend surgical options to correct structural issues or decompress nerves. Orthopedic doctors provide a comprehensive approach to treating neck pain, combining their medical expertise with advanced diagnostic tools and surgical skills when necessary.
Neurologist: Addressing Nervous System Involvement
Neurologists are medical doctors who specialize in nervous system disorders, which include the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neck pain can sometimes be linked to neurological conditions, like nerve compression and herniated discs, or conditions like cervical radiculopathy. A neurologist will conduct a detailed evaluation, which may include imaging studies like MRIs or CT scans and nerve conduction tests to diagnose the problem accurately. Treatment options offered by neurologists may include medication to manage nerve pain, physical therapy to improve function, and sometimes surgical interventions if there is significant nerve involvement.
Is Cracking Your Neck Bad? Talk to the Experts at AICA to Learn More
While the urge to crack your own neck for relief can be strong, it is important to seek professional help for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Chiropractors, physical therapists, orthopedic doctors, and neurologists each bring unique skills and expertise to the table, offering a wide range of treatment options designed to address the underlying causes of your neck pain.
At AICA College Park, our chiropractors are dedicated to uncovering the underlying reason you roll your neck and creating a personalized pathway to a pain-free future. Call us today for your first consultation.