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Cracking your back has become a popular way of relieving pain and tension. It feels like a satisfying crunch of your spine and can offer some temporary relief. However, it’s not without its potential risks. So what really happens when you crack your back, and is it safe to do?
What Causes Cracking?
Cracking your back is caused by gas bubbles that form in your joints. This is known as cavitation, and it occurs when a rapid change in pressure causes the gas to be rapidly released – producing a sound similar to cracking a knuckle. When you crack your back, the joint stretches and releases the bubble with a ‘pop’.
What Are The Benefits of Cracking Your Back?
Improved Mobility
Cracking your back can help to increase your range of motion and may also give you temporary relief from pain, stiffness, and tightness in your back. This is because the popping releases endorphins, which are natural pain relievers, and decreases the load placed on the joint.
Relieving Muscle Tension
Cracking your back can cause a ‘release’ of tension in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the back. By stretching the ligaments and releasing trigger points, you can reduce any tightness around the joint and decrease pain, which can help to improve your posture.
Relaxation
Although cracking your back should not be used as a substitute for stretching or professional treatment, it can be beneficial to relieving stress and promoting relaxation. The sound of the pop can be calming and can offer a sense of comfort.
What Are The Risks of Cracking Your Back?
Listing
Cracking your back can cause your spine to misalign, which is known as listing. This can cause the spine to twist too far, putting too much pressure on the ligaments and muscles, leading to more pain.
Injury
Cracking your back too often could lead to an injury. This is because when you crack your back again and again, you may be damaging the ligaments, weakening them and making them more prone to injury.
Pain
If your back is already in pain, cracking it can make the pain worse. This is because to crack your back significantly, you need to move your vertebrae out of the usual position. This may exacerbate any existing damage and resulting pain.
People Also Ask
Can cracking your back cause long-term problems?
No, cracking your back is not typically a cause of long-term problems, as long as you do it sensibly.
How often should I crack my back?
It is recommended that you don’t crack your back more than once a day and only when absolutely necessary.
Do chiropractors crack your back?
Yes, chiropractors will use a technique known as spinal manipulation to crack your back. This technique is designed to be more controlled than self-cracking.
Are there any alternatives to cracking your back?
Yes, there are alternative methods such as stretches and massage that can help to relieve the tension and pain in your joints.
How do I know if it’s safe to crack my back?
It is recommended that you seek professional advice from a doctor or chiropractor before performing any self-manipulation.
Final Words
Cracking your back can offer temporary relief to pain and tightness in your back. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and exercise caution. It’s best to seek professional advice first and, if you choose to do it yourself, make sure you do it safely.