Is it Safe to Crack Your Own Back? | Renton Chiropractors

Sometimes when you’re experiencing physical discomfort, cracking your own back or neck can provide instant relief, albeit for a few seconds. However, are self-adjustments bad for you? This is a common question we receive at Petett Chiropractic. The short answer is … it depends.

Self-Adjustments vs. Proper Chiropractic Adjustments

Woman with tattoo back, touching shoulder

While the occasional self-adjustment is not harmful, repeatedly cracking your own back or neck can develop into serious health issues over time. Instead of self-adjustments, our team at Petett Chiropractic highly recommends doing light and gentle stretches. Stretches are a safe way to ease discomfort and provide joint relief. Foam rollers are another great option to ease tension.

A chiropractic adjustment is very much different from just simply cracking your back or neck. With years of training and experience, your chiropractor uses controlled force to a specific area of the body. Chiropractic adjustments work to correct structural alignment and improve your body’s physical function.

So, what causes the popping sound you hear immediately following an adjustment? Our joints are made up of fluid and gases, such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide. During a chiropractic adjustment, the pressure opens up the enclosed space, releasing the gas and creating a popping sound.

Visit Your Renton Chiropractic Clinic

Self-adjustments may not cause any immediate, major damage to your bones and joints, but if you constantly feel the need to do it, this likely indicates an underlying condition. If this is the case for you, schedule an appointment at your Renton chiropractic clinic today.

During your initial consultation, our experienced and highly skilled chiropractors will perform a thorough examination. They will review your history and physical condition to address your health concerns. X-rays may be taken to help the chiropractic doctors pinpoint specific problem areas. If you have any questions regarding chiropractic care, don’t hesitate to give us a call or shoot us a message.


Read more chiropractic blog posts from Petett Chiropractic:

Petett Chiropractic’s Expert Guide on Neck Pain

Petett Chiropractic’s Expert Guide on Back Pain

Choosing the Right Mattress to Prevent Back Pain