Q: What causes that cracking sound during a chiropractic adjustment?
A: Not all chiropractic techniques produce that cracking or popping sound, but many do. It is the sound of release caused by gas rushing in to fill the partial vacuum created when the joints are slightly separated.
Q: Is it bad to crack your neck or back frequently?
A: Feeling the need to crack your neck or back is caused by the build up of tension from fixated or locked vertebra, which causes another part of the spine to compensate by moving too much resulting in the popping sound. The fixated part of the spine should be adjusted by a chiropractor to balance the rest of the spine.
Q: Am I adjusting myself when I crack my neck or back?
A: Cracking your neck or back may provide temporary relief but the urge to crack will soon return because the spinal tension has not been corrected. Left uncorrected the fixated segment may undergo degenerative changes resulting in osteoarthritis, disc thinning, pinched nerves and radiating pain into muscles of the extremities.
Q: Can I detect a subluxation (misaligned vertebra) myself?
A: You may have a subluxation for a long time before any symptoms appear. It is possible for you to know that you have a subluxation, but rarely is it possible to know that you do not. That is why periodic spinal checkups are a good idea.
Q: Can I go to a chiropractor once?
A: Once is certainly better than never. Chiropractic can help in so many ways it is a great idea to talk to chiropractor about your specific needs.
Q: Is chiropractic care addictive?
A: It is possible to get used to feeling more balanced from chiropractic care. You may become more aware of your body and know when you have lost your alignment.
Q: What will happen if I stop going?
A: Spine and nerve stress will continue to accumulate, but it will not be eliminated or reduced if you discontinue chiropractic care. If the stress is not relieved your health will suffer, just as it suffers if you never go to a chiropractor.
Q: Can spines go back in place by themselves?
A: Yes. It is possible for spines to accidentally adjust as a result of a fall or trauma. A professional adjustment is a lot safer. Also, different types of therapy including massage and other bodywork can reduce musculoskeletal stress sometimes allowing the spine to automatically realign. A cathartic emotional release and even a great night’s sleep can occasionally correct a subluxation.
If you have any questions not answered here or want to receive more information please call 661-298-9500 for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Charles Konya at Konya Chiropractic Center located at 18520 W. Soledad Canyon Rd, #F in Canyon Country.