There are many reasons why neck popping occurs. And neck popping is termed as the neck crepitus. And if you are the one who is facing this problem, then you may be looking for a solution. Well! You are in the right place if you are looking for this term, as we are going to share complete details of neck popping and its causes and symptoms. Be with us to consume all the details. Let’s dive into it.
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What is Neck Popping?
The neck popping or cracking is scientifically known as neck crepitus. And the word “crepitus” describes the complete joint movements in detail. Popping, cracking, snapping, or grinding noises happen due to the joint motion. Crepitus maybe happens in any of your moveable joints. Neck crepitus is a common disease and a lot of people have faced this issue. For example, you may have heard a neck popping or neck cracking sound when you may look over your shoulder.
As most people want to know why does my neck keep popping? There are capsules around your neck joint and these capsules contain the fluid. And when the stretching happens, it allows the fluid to put less pressure on your joints. And when the pressure is less, the fluids in the joint break off the gas which is present in it.
Common Symptoms That may occur with Neck Crepitus:
Dr. O’Connor emphasizes that neck crepitus or “cracking” is usually not something to worry about. However, the situation can also be linked with other serious symptoms, such as:
- Neck pain
- Instability
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Diminished manual dexterity
- Difficulty in walking
“It’s important to seek medical attention if you have symptoms such as neck pain, weakness, or sensory changes,” said Dr. O’Connor. “If you have pain radiating down the arm, or you have difficulty completing fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or writing, you should consult your doctor. These symptoms can potentially be caused by spinal cord or nerve root compression or other serious issues. “As most people want to know that Is it normal to hear crunching in your neck? Crepitus or crepitation is the noise that you hear during your joint movements such as a popping, cracking, or snapping sound.
Why does Neck Popping happen?
There are many reasons why joints, and especially the neck, will crack or pop:
- Breakout Gas:
There is a special kind of fluid in the joints that assists the bones and tissues to move together evenly. This fluid has oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. There are paired joints in our neck, known as facet joints, that move up and down each side. And each of these facet joints has a capsule around them and it is filled with gas and fluid. When the joint capsule is extended, then gas is divulged rapidly in the form of bubbles. And this divulsion causes the neck to crack or pop. This process is called as “boiling” or “cavitation.”
- Movement:
When a joint moves, it directly affects the adjacent ligaments and tendons which connect the bones to muscles. Whenever the tendons move a little bit from their place, they will make a snapping sound when they come back to their original place. It may have happened to the ankle or knee. Most people have a question that Should I be worried about my neck cracking? Neck cracking is not a serious condition, however, if it happens to you uncommonly and causes pain then you should consult the doctor.
Possible disease due to Neck Popping:
- Arthritis:
In this disease, the cartilage loses its smoothness and is termed arthritis. And the surface of the joint of the affected person becomes rough. Thus, it creates a sound when the joint moves.
- Stroke:
Neck cracking may cause a tear in your vertebra artery, which supplies blood to the brain. And this tear can create a stroke. Individuals who face neck popping occasionally, have more chances of stroke. This is more common in those who are under 60 years of age.
- Blood Clotting:
Neck cracking may cause blood clotting in your neck. It is the most dangerous thing as it can block the oxygen supply to the brain.
- Osteoarthritis:
You know during the Cracking of the neck, your joints have to face pressure on it. If neck cracking happens commonly then it will lead you towards the instability of the neck resulting in osteoarthritis, a condition in which the tissue at the ends of bones becomes weaker. Osteoarthritis is a very painful and irreversible condition.
- Lack of Flexibility:
The connective tissue of the spine is damaged whenever the neck popping happens. And if it happens occasionally it may lead to arthritis.
Is there any advantage of Neck popping?
Cracking or popping of the neck is practiced by chiropractors. There are a lot of risks that happen due to neck cracking such as vascular injury, fracture, or nerve damage, but these risks are low in people who have healthy ligaments, bones, and muscles. “Those in favor of trusted Source of the process,” say that it is more effective than other treatments, such as exercising the muscles that support the spine. Neck cracking or pooping may help with the following symptoms:
- Migraine
- Neck pain
- Lower back pain
- Some joint severe conditions
It is important to note that neck popping should be practiced by professional chiropractors. But if you are still facing the issue, then go for the following steps:
- Go for Professional massage.
- Take OTC pain medication.
- A good mattress or change your sleeping position.
- Do Neck stretching & neck strengthening exercises.
- You can put ice or heat on the affected area.
- You should not carry heavy shoulder bags.
Final Words:
We have discussed all the reasons and facts behind the neck popping or cracking. It is not a serious disease, but it may lead you toward a serious disease. You can check all the details mentioned above if you face neck popping. Did you find it worth reading? Share your experience with us in the comment box below.
