What is the Popping Sound During a Chiropractic Adjustment?

Chiropractic adjustments offer many benefits, including pain relief, increased mobility, and improved posture. During a spinal adjustment, you may hear a popping or cracking sound and wonder what it is (and whether or not it’s a good thing). For some, that pop can be alarming, while for others, it may be quite satisfying. So, what causes the popping sound during an adjustment, and should you be concerned about it?

What Causes the Popping Sound at a Chiropractor?

The popping sound you hear during an adjustment results from a release of pressure in a spinal joint. There are a couple of theories as to what exactly is being released.

The Synovial Fluid Theory

Subluxations inhibit the free movement of synovial fluid, the lubricant that keeps your joints flexible. This causes an uncomfortable buildup of pressure in the joint. During an adjustment, the capsules that contain synovial fluid are stretched out, allowing for a release of built-up pressure. This may result in a popping sound.

The Gas Theory

The production of synovial fluid creates gaseous byproducts: oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. When there are subluxations in your spinal joints, these gases become trapped. During an adjustment, these gases are released, a process referred to as cavitation. This release may lead to an adjustment’s signature popping sound.

Is the Popping Sound a Good Thing?

The popping during an adjustment not only indicates a release of pressure in your back, it also signals that endorphins are being released into your body. Endorphins are hormones that can reduce pain and stress, as well as improve your overall mood and sense of well-being.

This is why cracking your knuckles or popping another joint can feel so incredibly satisfying. Even though it can be enjoyable, we don’t recommend frequent joint popping. When done incorrectly or excessively, this action can pinch nerves, strain muscles, stretch out ligaments, and damage blood vessels.

Do I Need to Hear a Pop or Crack During Chiropractic Adjustment?

Hearing a pop during your adjustment may feel rewarding, but it doesn’t happen every time or for everyone. The absence of a pop doesn’t mean the procedure wasn’t done correctly or that it was ineffective. Some individuals may have subluxations without the pressure buildup that causes popping sounds during adjustments.

Can The Graston Technique® Help with Chiropractic Care?

If you have experienced soft tissue injuries in addition to subluxations, Graston Technique® therapy is an effective treatment to restore function, reduce pain, and improve range of motion. The Graston Technique® uses specialized tools to perform cross-fiber massage on scar tissue and fascial restrictions.

Chiropractic Care Can Relieve Pain and Restore Range of Motion

If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or loss of motion, we can help you feel better with spinal adjustments, Graston Technique® therapy, massage, and more. For more than 35 years, East Bay Chiropractic Wellness has provided a broad range of chiropractic services to Long Island residents. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.