Cracking the Case on Neck Cracking

Have you ever wondered, “Why does my neck crunch when I roll my head?” The neck cracking you’re experiencing is called neck crepitus, a common medical condition that is usually not concerning but could indicate a more serious medical issue if associated with pain or trauma or becomes more frequent. Town Center Orthopaedics’ (TCO) Back, Neck & Spine specialists explain what you need to know and when you should be concerned.

What Is Cracking Your Neck Called & Other Questions Answered

“Neck crepitus is a crunching or crackling sound we sometimes hear when the neck moves,” explains Dr. Charles N. Seal, an orthopedic surgeon at TCO. “When you move your neck, it may release gas bubbles from the spine’s facet joints, which are the joints in the neck. Like many other joints in the body, they have lubricating fluid and can develop gas bubbles with changes in pressure. The cracking sound you hear is the release of these gas bubbles.”

Neck cracking sounds can also occur from the movement of tendons, ligaments, and bone surfaces across one another. This becomes more common with degenerative changes in the spine, muscle tightness, or poor posture. It can also occur with arthritis in the neck or cervical spondylosis. “Over time, the cushion between the connecting joints of the spine will wear away and cause neck cracking, popping, or snapping sounds,” Dr. Seal shares.

Neck Crepitus Symptoms

The primary symptom is the crunching or crackling sound you hear when the neck moves. This sound may be accompanied by pain or discomfort in the neck and shoulder area. Other symptoms can include:

• Neck stiffness.

• Decreased range of motion.

• Tenderness.

If left untreated, the condition may worsen and cause more intense pain and discomfort.

Neck crepitus can also be associated with headaches, dizziness, numbness or tingling in the arms or hands, or difficulty sleeping due to the discomfort caused by moving the neck.

Diagnosing and Treating Neck Crepitus

To evaluate neck crepitus, your doctor will start with a physical examination, assess the neck’s range of motion, and look for any signs of tenderness, swelling, or redness. They will obtain relevant history and may ask questions about lifestyle habits and activities that could be causing the condition. “We may also order imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI to look for signs of degenerative joint disease or other abnormalities if there are any concerns,” Dr. Seal says.

Once the doctor makes the diagnosis, treatment can begin. Treatment may include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants to reduce pain and swelling.

• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the neck and increase the range of motion.

• Corrective exercises may help improve posture and decrease strain on the neck muscles.

With proper care, neck crepitus can be managed successfully over time. In some cases, lifestyle changes may be necessary to reduce symptoms of neck crepitus, such as avoiding activities that aggravate the condition or improving posture while sitting, standing, and sleeping. Getting adequate rest and practicing good ergonomic habits while working at a computer or desk job is important.

At-Home Treatment Options

Though medical professionals will provide the best treatment options for this neck-cracking condition, you can also do treatments at home. These include:

• Resting, icing, and gentle stretching exercises.

• Taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen to help reduce pain and inflammation.

• Applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath may also be beneficial.

If your neck cracks and pain persist despite at-home treatments, it is important to seek medical advice. An orthopedic specialist can comprehensively evaluate the underlying causes of your symptoms.

Depending on the cause of your neck cracking, a specialist may recommend further tests or treatments such as physical therapy, pain management, medications to reduce inflammation, or injections. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

How To Prevent Neck Crepitus

Neck crepitus can be prevented or managed by reducing the risk of injury and strain on the neck. It is important to maintain good posture, as slouching can lead to muscle tension and pain. A supportive pillow is also recommended to keep the head, neck, and spine aligned while sleeping.

Maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce strain on the neck muscles and joints. Additionally, “Regular exercise, such as stretching and strengthening exercises for the neck muscles, can help reduce tension in the area,” Dr. Seal advises. “If you work at a desk or computer for long periods, take regular breaks to stretch your neck muscles and change positions throughout the day. You may also want to raise your workstation to eye level to reduce strain from looking down for long periods.”

Feel Better. Move Better. Be Better—With Town Center Orthopaedics

If you’re suffering from neck cracking, crunching, or popping, Town Center Orthopaedics’ Back, Neck & Spine specialists like Dr. Seal can identify what’s causing the cracking and develop an individualized treatment plan to help relieve you of pain and discomfort. Request an appointment to meet with us so you can get back to living your best life as soon as possible.