What's the Popping Sound When Getting Adjusted

Published on August 30, 2024

Manual adjustment
Dear Valued Patient,

Understanding the Cracking Noise During Chiropractic Adjustments

If you’ve ever been to a chiropractor, you might have heard a distinct cracking noise during your adjustment. It’s a common experience, but many people wonder what’s really happening in their bodies during these moments.

So, what causes the cracking noise?

The sound you hear is known as a “cavitation.” This occurs when gas bubbles in the synovial fluid—the lubricant that keeps your joints moving smoothly—are rapidly released from the joint capsule. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Joint Cavitation:

Your joints are surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid. When the chiropractor applies a quick, controlled force to the joint, it stretches the capsule and decreases the pressure inside it. This reduction in pressure allows the gases dissolved in the fluid— mainly oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide—to form bubbles and then collapse. The collapse of these bubbles produces the familiar cracking or popping sound.

2. No Pain, All Gain:

Many people are surprised that this sound is not associated with pain. The adjustment is generally aimed at restoring proper alignment and mobility to your spine or other joints, which can lead to improved function and reduced discomfort over time.

3. Relief and Results:

The cracking sound is often accompanied by a feeling of relief and increased movement. The adjustment helps to realign the vertebrae and other joints, which can alleviate pressure on nerves and reduce muscle tension.

4. Scientific View:

Research suggests that this sound does not signify any harm or damage to the joint. Instead, it’s a byproduct of the mechanical process involved in adjusting the joint. It’s important to note that the presence or absence of this noise doesn’t necessarily indicate the effectiveness of the adjustment. Also, just because it doesn’t “pop,” doesn’t mean that it didn’t adjust well.

Final Thoughts

Hearing a crack or pop during a chiropractic adjustment is entirely normal and part of the adjustment process. It’s a harmless sound that results from the release of gas bubbles in the joint and is usually accompanied by a sense of relief and improved mobility.

Sincerely,

Davis Chiropractic Health & Wellness

Understanding the Cracking Noise During Chiropractic Adjustments

So, what causes the cracking noise?

1. Joint Cavitation:

2. No Pain, All Gain:

3. Relief and Results:

4. Scientific View:

Final Thoughts