Self-Cracking explained by your Chiropractor

You might often hear people say they enjoy “cracking” their own spine, thinking that it provides relief and helps with mobility. However, cracking your own spine can actually do more harm than good, and it’s important to understand the differences between a self-administered adjustment and one performed by a chiropractor.

First of all, attempting to crack your own spine can be dangerous if done improperly. The spine is made up of delicate bones and tissues, and if you’re not trained to perform adjustments, you can put excessive force on the wrong area, leading to injury. Additionally, if you have any underlying conditions, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, or a previous spinal injury, cracking your own spine can further damage your bones and nerves.

On the other hand, a chiropractic adjustment is a highly skilled and precise procedure that involves a gentle, controlled force applied to a specific area of the spine. The chiropractor uses their hands or a specialised tool to realign the bones and tissues, reducing pressure on the nerves and improving mobility. A chiropractic adjustment is much safer and more effective than self-cracking, and it’s performed with the patient’s comfort and safety in mind.

Another important difference between self-cracking and a chiropractic adjustment is the effect on the surrounding muscles. When you crack your own spine, the muscles around the spine tense up in response to the sudden force, which can lead to muscle spasms, pain, and even headaches. A chiropractic adjustment, on the other hand, is performed with the goal of relaxing the muscles and reducing tension. This is why a chiropractic adjustment feels much gentler and less abrupt than self-cracking.

Finally, a chiropractic adjustment is much more effective at providing long-term relief and improving overall health. While self-cracking may provide temporary relief, it’s not addressing the root cause of the problem. A chiropractor takes a holistic approach to health, considering the patient’s lifestyle, diet, and stress levels in addition to their physical symptoms. By taking these factors into account, a chiropractor can develop a comprehensive treatment plan to address the underlying cause of the patient’s pain and improve their overall health.

Instead of self-cracking, consider visiting a chiropractor for a safe and effective adjustment that can help you achieve long-term health benefits.