When people find out I’m a chiropractor, all too often it is followed by some remark about ‘cracking backs’. The idea of someone cracking my bone is not too pleasing, but unfortunately that is the stereotype associated with chiropractic. Yes, adjusting the spine can result in an audible release, so what is the deal with all that noise?
The joints of our spine are encapsulated by strong ligaments. You can think of your spinal joints as strong water balloons. Within the joint space you will find a lubricant that helps the joint achieve proper motion. This liquid contains soluble gases (mostly nitrogen/oxygen) to aid in its lubricating properties. During an adjustment the space within the joint increases as the chiropractor provides a gentle force to correct subluxated (misaligned) vertebrae. As the joint is stretched portions of the soluble gas may be released within the joint space. This diffusion of liquid to gas creates the ‘pop’ noise associated with the adjustment.
This gas remains in the joint space for a period of time increasing the joint motion. This increased motion helps the body place the vertebrae in proper relationship with its neighboring vertebrae delivering the best possible spinal joint function.
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It is a shame when I hear people say they are scared of having their spine ‘cracked’. I do not blame them, most of the blame falls on my profession for not properly educating. Because of that fear of being cracked, they will not allow chiropractic to help them. My hope is, through proper education, more individuals will be comfortable approaching a chiropractic office for an adjustment, not for a cracking.
Zachary Lundbohm, D.C. is the owner and chiropractor at ChiroClub of Eden Prairie; he is committed to providing affordable quality chiropractic care to the local communities. Want to read more about chiropractic? Check out his ChiroBlog for additional posts!
