Adjustment (or manipulation) of a joint may result in the release of a gas bubble between the joints, which makes a popping sound. The same thing occurs when you “crack” your knuckles. The noise is caused by the change of pressure within the joint, which results in gas bubbles being released. There is usually minimal, if any, discomfort involved. Still, there are a lot of questions from patients asking “What is the popping sound?” or “Are there alternative adjustment methods where popping does not occur?”. In this article we will discuss chiropractic adjustments and the popping sound sometimes produced.

No Reason to Fear

To start off, I can assure you the chiropractic adjustment is very safe and effective. That being said, with the reaction we sometimes get relating to the topic of popping sounds and adjustments, we sometimes think new patients just came from watching a Steven Seagal movie where they watched him break someones neck.

I can confidently say that all patients who get adjusted the first time in our office realize that their fear was unfounded. Patients over time also become more and more comfortable when they start noticing the changes in the body and the power of the adjustment.

Adjustment Methods With No Popping

Each patient’s care is uniquely different from every other patient. Adjusting methods are always adapted to a patient’s size, weight, age and health condition.

We do have some patients that prefer not to get a manual adjustment that makes the “popping or cracking” sound. Our office provides different adjustment techniques which will not produce the “popping or cracking” sound, which are just as effective as the manual adjustment. The difference is that there is minimal force being applied.

Best Adjustment For You

We evaluate the conditions each patient before recommending what we believe to be the best approach for care. However, we also listen to our patients and allow them to voice any views or concerns before starting treatment. We think of each interaction between a patient and the doctor as being part of a team. We are both here for a purpose, make sure that the patient is living live to the best that they can be.

Get Involved

Do/Have you ever had doubts about the popping or cracking noise when getting a chiropractic adjustment? Leave your comments below!