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As a chiropractic physician, this question gets asked on a regular basis and cannot be simply answered with a yes or no. Naturally, there are many in my profession who would give an emphatic NO. But there is more to it, and the information gathered can help with the diagnosis. If the neck (or lower back) only pops on one side, then the prudent D.C. should consider not adjusting that side because hypermobile segments are likely to exist there. The opposite side is where you would expect to find the hypomobile or stuck vertebrae. This concept of loose segments on one side and locked segments on the other is the reality behind the great majority of back and neck pain. It is more than just a "bone out of place". All patients deserve an explanation of what is actually going on when the neck "pops".
My first response when confronted with this question is to determine if the patient uses their own hands to elicit a "pop". If the answer is yes then I would definitely encourage them to stop. In fact, it is not unusual to admit patients who report that their symptoms were brought on by this practice. Hypermobile segments, when constantly popped can develop permanent instability. The result is seen on X-Ray as areas where spurs have developed, often bridging the gap between vertebrae.
If however, the audible popping sounds occur spontaneously during side to side stretches or while rotating the neck, then I would say that there is no problem with the process as long as the audibles occur on both sides.
To put it in a nutshell, the factors one should consider before continuing to adjust their own spine are:
1. How am I popping it?
2. What is the popping sound caused by? (Cavitation or release of nitrogenous gases in the joint capsule)
3. Do I get long lasting relief from my self manipulation?
If the answer to #3 is no, then you might consider consulting a bio-mechanical specialist, namely a chiropractor. This is the preferred method for determining if misaligned vertebrae are causing your symptoms. Most importantly, the D.C. should have the skill to determine which segments need to be manipulated (the hypomobile, stuck joints) and which areas of the spine should be left alone.
Call today for a consultation or appointment, we are here to help you live a pain free life!