Does Cracking the Neck Cause Arthritis?

Can Arthritis Be Caused by Cracking Your Neck?

Some people believe a "cracking" sound heard when neck muscles and structures are purposely bent is a good thing. After all, there's often instant relief felt as tension is released. If you happen to be in the habit of occasionally stimulating your neck muscles with mild or moderate force, you may be wondering if the resulting "cracking" or "popping" sounds you hear are increasing your risk of developing arthritis within your neck/upper spine area. Here's what you need to know.

In Short—You're Probably Safe

The "popping" or "cracking" sound you hear when you crack or stretch your neck is caused by the release of small gas bubbles within a connecting point between two bones that has a cartilage-lined cavity filled with fluid (synovial joints). There’s no evidence suggesting the forced release of gas bubbles causes any harm to the neck.

Finger Cracking—No Arthritis Connection

There are no major studies on neck cracking to draw data from. However, it’s known that the habit of finger cracking doesn’t increase the risk of developing arthritis. Since this is essentially the same process involved with neck cracking, it can be assumed that these results apply to the neck as well.

Neck Arthritis—Causes and Contributing Factors

Neck arthritis (cervical osteoarthritis) typically develops over time due to the age-related wear that affects joints and soft tissues in the neck. The protective cartilage that minimizes friction in the neck as it moves gradually wears down. The result is more bone-on-bone friction, which contributes to inflammation and irritation. You may then experience the following symptoms:

• Neck stiffness and pain
• Discomfort extending to your shoulders and arms
• Numbness or weakness in your arms and hands
• Pain aggravated by certain neck movements
• Muscle spasms in your neck area

In general, arthritis is a progressive condition. It can be affected by genetics, your level of physical activity, the demands of your job, and severe injuries affecting the neck and its various parts. However, there’s no evidence to suggest neck cracking alone speeds up the process of cartilage wear.

Neck Cracking—Proceed with Caution

If you’re a habitual neck cracker, do so with caution. It's fine to give yourself a good stretch until you hear a distinct sound that suggests you’ve accomplished your goal. However, avoid being overly forceful. Also, be cautious with neck cracking by:

• Not repeatedly doing it to the point where you’re straining your neck muscles or possibly damaging joints or discs in your neck
• Not stretching your neck beyond its normal range of motion
• Stopping immediately if you feel sharp pain or unusual discomfort

Another way to safely stimulate your neck muscles is to explore your options with chiropractic care. A chiropractor can also help you learn safe ways to crack your neck yourself. See your doctor or a Los Angeles spine surgeon if you notice lingering neck pain after you crack your neck or if you hear cracking or popping sounds in your neck after a car accident, fall, or similar type of injury.

If you’re experiencing severe, sudden, or prolonged neck pain, reach out to the pioneering spine specialists at The Spine Institute. Our physicians are industry-leading experts in every aspect of spinal health. Give us a call today at 310-828-7757 to schedule a consultation.