A fluid-filled capsule surrounds each facet joint. A healthy facet joint is one that moves freely and smoothly. An unhealthy facet joint is one in which the bone, cartilage, or capsule is diseased or damaged.
When you crack your back, you're cracking your facet joints. The process that causes the "cracking" noise is really not that complicated. The fluid found in the capsule that surrounds facet joints contains nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases. When you twist, turn, or maneuver your back in such a manner that stresses the facet joints, pressure is placed on the fluid and the gases inside it escape and a "crack" is heard.
Cracking your back can temporarily relieve tension and feel good; however, it is not a reliable short or long-term treatment option for back pain. Cracking your back every once in a while will not cause damage. Frequently cracking your back or manipulating your spine can lead to back problems. If you feel the need to constantly crack your back, you probably have an underlying problem with your spine.
Some frequently seen problems include the following:. These and other problems are best diagnosed and treated by an orthopedic spine specialist. Once a formal diagnosis is made, an effective treatment plan can be prescribed and the urge to constantly crack your back will go away. The main thing to look out for when cracking your back is the frequency in which you do it. Cracking your back on a daily basis should be avoided. But what is making this sound? And when should it concern me? Find out the 3 common causes of joint crepitus.
The cracking, popping, or grating that you experience under your skin is called crepitus and usually originates from your joints, but may also develop within your bursae, tendons, or other soft tissues.
See Osteoarthritis of the Spine. Crepitus may indicate an injury to a bone or soft tissue. Motion-related sounds from your spine are usually produced when you bend forward or rotate the spine. Watch Facet Joint Anatomy Animation.
Watch Spine Anatomy Overview Video. Crepitus may also occur when the movement in your facets is less producing laxity 3 , 4 or more producing instability. For the best results, take your time, hold the stretches, and get in a routine of doing them regularly. What's more, stretching when you're experiencing pain is just a temporary fix.
Fischer adds, "A better long-term solution would be to do five minutes of stretching every day to help keep the back muscles from cramping and becoming painful. Follow Emma on Instagram and Twitter. Celebrity Fashion Video. What exactly is cracking your back?
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