Is It Safe To Crack Your Neck And Back?
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Although, in most instances it is safe to crack or pop your neck, patient’s often get longer term relief with lumbar and cervical stabilization. Self-manipulation is common, however, it isn’t necessarily a healthy option for relieving pressure or pain in the spine. When cracking or popping your neck, the high velocity maneuvers result in a satisfactory pop are often only a temporary solution. The effects of popping your neck or back create a euphoric sensation from the endorphins released upon “”cracking”” or “”popping.”” The addictive aspect of these natural chemicals lead to habitual “”back or neck cracking.”” Instability and worsening of degenerative or inflammatory issues in the spine may result when over-stressing the joints of the spine.
Learn more in this Post from Dr. Robert Savarese.
Is it safe to crack or pop your neck?
Alternatives to Cracking Your Neck
A safer option to relieve pain is to consider gentle ROM exercises or stretching. If you want to learn how to safely stretch your spine, JOI can help. Lower back stretches, sciatic nerve stretch, and how-fix-kink-your-neck.
Neck retraction exercise
If you suffer from neck stiffness please watch our video Neck Stretches For The Office
A Neck Stretch for at your office
Cervical Rotation Stretch
A cervical rotation stretch occurs when you rotate or turn the head towards the left or right shoulder. You should make sure you begin this stretch with a straight back and relaxed shoulders. Start by slowly rotating your head as if you are trying to look over your shoulder.
Physical therapy can also assist in core strength and rehabilitating the spine. Our team at JOI is here to help you get through you neck and back pain. To schedule an appointment for physical therapy at JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
To learn more about a pinched nerve in your neck watch this VIDEO.
Related Articles:
- Low Back Pain
- Is cracking your neck is bad?
- How To Tell if You Have a Broken Neck
- How To Sleep With Neck Pain
If your pain or symptoms do not improve, you may need to see one of our orthopedic spine physicians. Please call 904-JOI-2000
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