If a chiropractor has ever treated you for various back, neck, or head pain, you probably felt and heard popping in the affected area. This may have been alarming at the time; perhaps you’re still confused by what causes the feeling and sound. Don’t let this scare you, as it’s not coming from cracking bones. Chiropractors are well-trained to practice safe, effective techniques. There’s no reason to shy away from your first or next visit. People continue to experience positive results and the freedom from lifelong discomforts and ailments by visiting qualified, licensed chiropractors.

The Anxiety and Reservations

When people deal with aches and pains, they may chalk it up as a part of life or as a result of growing older. However, no one should have to live with pain that inhibits daily activities and diminishes one’s quality of life. Chiropractors are a popular choice for people looking for relief. These professionals use adjustment techniques to align the spine and joints. Unfortunately, some people are afraid to give this intervention a try. People in this camp may think chiropractors simply pop your back and that their methods crack bones and potentially cause unbearable feelings or even harm. If you’ve heard these sentiments, rest assured that this isn’t what’s taking place.

What’s Happening?

It may surprise you to learn that those popping sounds you hear as you lie on the chiropractor’s table actually involve the release of gas. This is like the sound you hear when you open up a can of soda. In the chiropractic world, this phenomenon is called “cavitation.” Inside the joints of your spine is fluid that helps these joints move and stay healthy. Within this fluid are bubbles of air. As the chiropractor puts pressure on your back or other areas, these air bubbles pop, which produces the sound people often mistaken as bones cracking. These sounds are not dangerous, and they are totally normal and to be expected during an appointment. 

Let the Chiropractor Do the Work

You may have the urge to pop your own neck or back on occasion. Chiropractors recommend that you avoid doing this and leave the task to a trained professional. Without the knowledge of how to do this correctly, you could injure yourself.

If you’re experiencing long-term, severe pain in your body and nothing seems to cure your ills, give chiropractic treatment a try. You can have confidence that the sounds you hear and sensations you feel are not out of the ordinary. You can contact someone who specializes in whiplash treatment, like treatment from Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab and Chiropractic, if you want to learn more.