Is Cracking Your Neck Bad For You?
Why Do People Crack Their Necks?
Poor posture and prolonged working can lead to a stiff neck. In some cases, this neck stiffness is accompanied by unilateral neck pain. In an attempt to relieve the pain and maintain a normal range of motion, many people try stretching the joint capsule, i.e., neck cracking. This activity is known to relieve pain. People claim that cracking the neck leads to an appreciable reduction in neck stiffness and tension.
Although there is no association between audible cracking sound and pain relief, the sound can have some effect on internal chemicals. Contrary to the major studies, many clinicians believe that the cracking sound is necessary to improve spinal manipulation’s pain and function. However, one study investigating the effect of rotary manipulations concluded that there was some relation between the curative effect and the production of a popping sound.
According to a randomized controlled trial, cracking sounds have a positive mental effect. This maneuver releases endorphins and hormones that help lower mechanical pain. The internal chemicals released by neck cracking (and the cracking noise) include oxytocin and neurotensin. These hormones have a positive effect on the body. Thus, it can be said that the popping noise has a placebo effect.
Cause Of Cracking Sounds In The Neck
The underlying cause for the popping or cracking noise is not because of the readjustment of the joints but rather due to gas bubbles in the joints. Your spine bones are joined by facet joints, which contain synovial fluid to reduce friction. When you stretch the facet joints and the joint capsule, it causes quick release of the gas, producing the cracking noise. This is called cavitation.
In most cases, it is the nitrogen gas bubbles that release on cracking (tribonucleation). You can also find other gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide in the synovial fluid.
Is Neck Cracking Safe?
Yes, cracking your neck is generally safe if done gently and not habitually. However, not everyone has strong joints, and neck cracking can quickly become a habit. There can be consequences if it is not done right.
Risks Of Neck Cracking
Increased Mobility Of Neck Joints
Persistent cracking can make the joint more mobile than normal (hypermobility), induced by repeated stretching of the neck’s soft tissues.
Spasm Of Neck Muscles
Exerting too much pressure or forcibly cracking the neck can strain the muscles, making it difficult to move the neck and perform daily activities.
Neck Pain (Due To Nerve Impingement)
Forcibly cracking the neck can impinge nerves, causing pain that radiates down the arm and numbness. This is called cervical radiculopathy and may require medical attention.
Damage To Blood Vessels
The neck houses essential arteries and veins. Compression or damage can compromise blood flow, leading to serious complications.
Stroke
Damage to arteries from neck cracking can cause blood clotting and lead to stroke, most commonly ischemic stroke. While rare, reports link neck cracking to stroke and cervical artery dissection. For more, see Neck cracking explained.
Risk Of Osteoarthritis
Habitual neck cracking can permanently stretch cervical ligaments, leading to instability and a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Studies suggest cervical instability patients are at greater risk of cervical osteoarthritis.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat neck pain.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to repair the damage and help neck pain.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of neck pain, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Is There A Safe Way To Crack Your Neck?
Yes, there are safer ways to relieve neck tension. Avoid forceful twisting. Instead, try:
- Side stretch
- Chin tuck (with a towel)
- Massage equipment or foam rollers
Always allow at least 20–30 minutes between cracks. Too much cracking increases risk of complications.
When Should I See A Doctor For Cracking?
See a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Pain radiating to the arm/shoulders
- Numbness, burning, or tingling in the neck/shoulder
- Severe headaches
- Muscle weakness in the arm or hand
Who Should I Visit For Neck Pain?
Chiropractic care is effective for managing neck pain. A chiropractor can identify the underlying problem and provide tailored treatment. If you experience pain or discomfort, seek professional guidance rather than self-manipulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you crack your neck too much?
You can make your joint hypermobile, stretch ligaments, and increase risk of instability, osteoarthritis, or even stroke.
How often is it OK to crack your neck?
Occasional gentle cracking is generally safe, but regular or forceful cracking is discouraged.
Why does neck cracking feel so good?
The popping noise triggers the release of endorphins and other chemicals, providing a sense of relief and well-being.
What is the benefit of cracking your neck?
It may temporarily relieve tension and improve range of motion, but most studies do not find a direct link to pain reduction.
Is chiropractic cracking safe?
Yes, when performed by a licensed chiropractor. They use skillful techniques to relieve tension and improve mobility.
Why is my neck always stiff and cracking?
Stiffness after cracking may indicate excessive force or muscle strain. If persistent, seek professional advice.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating neck pain, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with neck pain and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
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References
- Roston JB, Wheeler H. The Cathartic Effect of Joint Cracking: A Review. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2017;40(5):365-371.
- Castellanos J, Axelrod D. Effect of habitual knuckle cracking on hand function. Ann Rheum Dis. 1990;49(5):308-309.
- ProHealth Clinic case studies and clinical experience, 2024.
- National Health Service (NHS). (2023). Neck pain. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/neck-pain/