Every chiropractor and even health practitioner has their own opinion on this question. Some claim it will lead to arthritis, some will say it can hurt you and even worse permanently disable you. My opinion is that it can be safe to crack your own back and here's why. The popping you hear from a chiropractic adjustment is a joint reaching it's full range of motion and creating a cavitation or air pocket in the capsule. The creation of this air pocket makes an audible 'pop'. Yes, that sweet ear candy that entrances you to watch hours of chiropractic adjustments on social media is an air pocket created in a joint. The more pops you hear the more joints affected, in fact there are 100+ joints in the spine itself.
As a chiropractor I want to hear that audible sound. I also want to assess and track the health of the tissues that surround the spine. Your spine should be straight up and down when looking from the front and with three distinct curves from the side. The muscles around the spine should be balanced, healthy and should not be tender to the touch. The health of your spine is critical because of the intimate relationship it has on your brain and nervous system's function. Self mobilization should not replace a chiropractor on your health team. A chiropractor can identify specific joints in your spine and get them moving the way they should.
I have to be honest in my assessment to this question because I crack my own back too. How hypocritical would I be giving advice and not adhering to it. However, I don't replace my own self adjusting for a chiropractor; I still see my chiropractor religiously every two weeks for my spine's health check up and maintenance. My opinion is that it is safe to crack your own back, but if you are experiencing symptoms before, during or after a self mobilization I highly encourage you to reach out for a consultation. We are accepting new patients in Maple Grove and are an in-network provider with major commercial medical insurance carriers, please call if you have questions 763-432-3932. Northwood Chiropractic & Wellness is proud to deliver results and care that aligns with your goals.
Dr. Greg Beenken
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