Why does my back crack on it's own

Everybody knows that chiropractors are pros at getting backs to pop and crack, but what about when your back pops and cracks on it's own? This will often leave patients concerned and unsure if it is a good or bad thing. To answer this question, we first need to look at what is happening when you hear pops and cracks in the body. The popping and cracking is simply gas bubbles being released from the synovial fluid within a joint. This is a normal characteristic of the human body and in most cases is considered a healthy thing. 

Listed are a few examples of when you may experience your back cracking on it's own 

Moving after being sedentary 

If a person is in one position for an extended period of time, it can allow joints to become more stiff and more gas bubbles may form within the joints. Resulting on more popping once movement occurs again 

Changes in pressure within the joint 

As people move throughout the day in different directions and angles, the pressure within the joint can change. This change in pressure can actually be the cause of gas bubble formation. These same movements can also be the cause of the gas bubbles to be released 

Purposefully manipulating the back 

Chiropractors for the most part advise against self popping of the back, especially in the neck and lower back. Although, general movement that causes popping and cracking is typically a good thing! This shows that there is adequate movement within the joints. When people jolt or rapidly twist their body trying to get a pop or a crack, it is more dangerous and can potentially cause injury. Now, you might ask, "how is this different than when my chiropractor adjusts me?" 

This is different than when chiropractors treat, because chiropractors are extremely specific where they adjust and how they adjust. Chiropractors will perform adjustments in the direction the joint is biomechanically restricted, with a force that is safe. These adjustments are typically performed with an HVLA adjustment, which stands for high velocity, low amplitude. 

Popping and cracking of the back on it's own is generally a good thing! 

Overall, popping and cracking of the back means there is healthy movement. If the popping and cracking comes with pain, swelling or immobility it is vital to see a health care professional, as underlying injury may be present. 

To schedule call us at 406-551-2177 or go online to gallatinvalleychiropractic.com