What Causes Neck Cracking & Grinding Sounds?

Why Do I Hear Grinding & Cracking in My Neck?

Certain neck movements, such as simply turning the head to one side or the other, sometimes result in cracking or grinding sounds, also referred to as crepitus. This is a fairly common occurrence. As for why these sounds occur, the specific cause isn't always clear or well understood. However, there are some factors, such as the ones discussed below, that could be associated with the sounds coming from your neck.

Articular Pressure Changes

Tiny facet joints (spinal joints) in the neck are considered synovial joints because they have fluid-filled cavities that protect the cartilage that cushions other bones in the neck. As these joints move when you move your neck, pressure changes may sometimes cause gas bubbles to form.

The cracking sound you hear is sometimes due to the release of pressure from these bubbles. This was first suggested in an early 1970s study. After being somewhat disputed by a 2015 study, these findings were again supported by a more recent 2018 study, which links the resulting neck sounds to full or partial bubble collapse.

Ligament/Tendon Movement Around Bones

Neck cracking or grinding is sometimes the result of ligaments or tendons moving over neck bones. Normally, tendons and ligaments are fairly stretchy, kind of like rubber bands, but they may become less elastic with age. Tendons and ligaments in the neck area may also be affected by:

• Inflammation or stiffness
• Spinal degeneration affecting the cervical spine 
• Overexertion or extension
• Injury
• Sudden or unusual movements
• Changes related to neck surgery

Note: Perfectly healthy tendons or ligaments within the neck area can also produce snapping, grinding, or cracking sounds.

Bone-on-Bone Friction

Facet joint cartilage in the neck sometimes wears down because of damage caused by progressive conditions such as osteoarthritis. Usually characterized by a limited range of motion and neck pain triggered by certain neck movements, neck crepitus related to increased bone-on-bone friction may also be related to:

• Whiplash or a similar traumatic injury
• A sports-related injury
• Age-related wear or degeneration

Intentional Neck Cracking/Grinding

Some people intentionally turn or twist their necks to make them "pop" or crack to relieve tension or stiffness. This is similar to what some individuals do when they habitually crack their knuckles. If you regularly crack your neck on purpose, you may be wondering if you’re boosting your odds of having issues with cartilage wear and soft tissue damage later in life. The good news is there’s no current evidence suggesting a link between neck cracking and an increased risk of arthritis.

Neck crepitus usually isn't linked to a serious health problem. In fact, it's entirely possible to hear occasional sounds coming from the neck region with little or no related discomfort. However, if this isn’t the case for you and you’re experiencing recurring pain and swelling, see what your regular doctor or Los Angeles spine surgeon has to say. It's especially important to seek treatment if neck crepitus begins after some type of sudden trauma, such as a hard impact or motor vehicle accident.

While occasional grinding or crunching sounds in the neck aren’t usually signs of a serious condition, if they’re accompanied by pain or occur following an injury, see a spinal health specialist for diagnosis as soon as possible. For the most innovative techniques in diagnosis and treatment of spine and neck conditions, trust the industry-leading physicians at The Spine Institute. Call one of our friendly representatives today at 310-828-7757.