Cracking Your Neck: Is It Killing Your Spine?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Popping your knuckles is a fairly common practice in which most of us participate. Most of us begin when we’re younger, somewhere in the teenage years. We do it to eliminate an uncomfortable sensation, and then it becomes a habit that we can’t break. Chances are good that you’ve been told that cracking the knuckles is dangerous or detrimental to your joints. But, is it really? Is it causing harm or damage or increasing pain? Take a look at how popping your knuckles might be harmful to your health, and how to go about it safely and effectively.
Why Do People Do It?
People usually take to cracking their neck, back, or other joints in an attempt to relieve pain or pressure. You may feel a stiffness in your neck, and you feel as though a quick pop will alleviate the discomfort. Does it work? It sometimes help to relieve a bit of discomfort immediately, but you’re probably not correcting any problems for the long haul.
Does It Cause Harm?
Probably not, but it’s important to point out that it might. Though the risk is minimal, popping your neck can lead to excess pain, stroke, or other serious conditions. With that said, the risk is incredibly, incredibly small. On a less serious note, you may have heard that popping your joints can lead to larger knuckles or arthritis, but this has been proven false through multiple studies.
Is It Worth the Risk?
Only you can determine whether popping your joints is worth the potential harm. Though the risk is small, it's still present. If the pain is great, chances are good that you need outside help anyway. Your best bet is to get professional care. If you really want to pop your neck or back, a chiropractor can do so with confidence and experience. They’ll be able to minimize the risk, and they may also be able to offer the most relief. The results of professional care will likely last much longer, as they have the knowledge to diagnose and correct the problems from which you suffer.
Where Can I Get Professional Help?
If you would like to try chiropractic care, check out The Joint Chiropractic. At The Joint, getting care is easier than ever with walk-in visits and affordable pricing. No stress, no worries, no hassle. Just quality care at a price you can afford. If you’re going to pop your neck, do it safely by leaving it in the hands of a professional. Protect your neck, boost your health, and feel better than ever with a quick trip to The Joint as soon as today.