You know that snap, crackle, pop you get during a chiropractic adjustment? It’s oddly wonderful, right? But how can something that sounds SO scary feel SO good?? We explain…

Spine Anatomy 101

There are three main components of the spine - the spinal cord, the meninges, and the spinal column.  The spinal cord (the bundle of nerves that connect the brain to every other nerve in your body) is protected by the meninges (the membranes that cover the spinal cord). The spinal column is a collection of vertically stacked bones (a.k.a. vertebra) that give the spine range of motion and provide another layer of protection to the spinal cord. Between each vertebra is a small disc that acts as a cushion and provides space for the spinal nerves to exit the spinal column.

Why the Pop Happens

Any seasoned chiropractic patient knows the pop is not a sign of something breaking or cracking. In fact, there are only good things happening! During an adjustment, the soft cushioning on the outer edge of your vertebra stretch, allowing a liquid called synovial fluid to seep inside. This relieves pressure on the joints which causes the fluid to turn into a gas and the pop sound occurs. Another theory is that natural gasses, such as oxygen and nitrogen, build up in the spaces between the joints. When these joints are stretched, the gas is released, and pop goes the back!

Why It Feels So Good

There are several reasons why that pop is oh so satisfying:

• The firm movements during a spinal adjustment relieve pressure from the spinal column.
• Chemicals that manage pain and provide feelings of relief (called endorphins) are released when your joints crack and release.
• Psychologically, people associate the sound of popping joints with feelings of relief, especially while at a chiropractor’s office.

Why the Pop Should Be Left to the Professionals

As with anything, there are risks involved. For this reason, only an experienced and trained chiropractor should perform spinal adjustments. Otherwise, you could do more harm than good, and put yourself at risk for the following:

• Pinched Nerves – Adjustments that are too fast or too hard can result in a pinched nerve that can limit your mobility and cause severe pain.
• Muscle Strain – Using too much force during a spinal adjustment can damage the soft tissue surrounding the joints and lead to muscle strains or tears.

Burghealth Chiropractic and Wellness – St. Petersburg, Florida’s Top Chiropractor 

Do you love the pop of a spinal adjustment? We got you! Call Burghealth Chiropractic and Wellness today at (727) 289-9148 to earn more about our chiropractic services or to schedule an appointment with one of the experienced and highly skilled members of our chiropractic care team.