Hearing clicking or popping sounds in your neck can be alarming, but is usually harmless. The clicking sound is caused by the facet joints at the back of the vertebrae rubbing together as the neck moves. The medical term for this is cervical crepitus. It’s a common occurrence as we age due to wear and tear, but can happen at any age. Let’s explore the common causes, when to worry, and how to find relief from that clicking neck.
What Causes Clicking in the Neck?
There are a few different causes for clicking or cracking sounds coming from your neck:
Facet Joints
The facet joints are found between each vertebrae and help provide stability and flexibility. These joints can stiffen up or degrade over time and begin to make clicking or popping noises with movement. Factors like aging,arthritis, poor posture, previous injury, or repetitive strain can lead to this wear and tear.
Tendons
Tendons attach muscles to bones. As tendons slide over the bones and other soft tissues of the neck, they can snap or pop. Certain neck positions can cause tendons to briefly displace or slide over bony areas causing this clicking sensation.
Muscle Spasms
When muscles of the neck contract suddenly or involuntarily it’s called a muscle spasm. This sudden tensing can lead to clicking or crunching sounds. Stress, poor posture, nutrition, or overuse can trigger spasms.
Cavitation
Cavitation refers to the formation and collapse of tiny bubbles within the fluid of our joints. When these bubbles pop it leads to a cracking or popping sound. The medical term for this is crepitus. Cavitation frequently happens with joint movement and is usually harmless.
When to Worry About Neck Clicking
In most cases, a clicking neck is not serious. However, there are some instances where you may need to consult your doctor:
Pain
If the clicking neck is accompanied by pain, swelling, numbness/tingling, or reduced range of motion you should be evaluated. This could indicate an underlying inflammatory condition or nerve compression.
Injury
A recent injury like whiplash or strain could make clicks and pops more noticeable. Seek medical care to assess for damage.
Loss of Control
Clicking that happens involuntarily with no control could indicate a nerve or muscular condition. See your doctor to identify potential disorders.
Weakness
Perceived weakness or instability in the neck alongside clicking warrants medical assessment to rule out muscle or nerve dysfunction.
Headaches
Sudden onset headaches paired with neck clicking can be a red flag for further evaluation.
When is Neck Clicking Normal?
In many cases, clicking is just a natural effect of normal joint movement and aging. It is generally considered harmless if it:
- Is painless
- Only occurs with movement
- Can be controlled or stopped voluntarily
- Doesn’t limit range of motion
- Isn’t accompanied by other symptoms like tingling or weakness
As we age, effects of wear and tear can lead to more clicking and popping with no negative health consequences. If the clicking doesn’t bother you, it likely isn’t anything to worry about.
What Does Clicking Mean if there’s No Pain?
When neck clicking or cracking isn’t accompanied by pain, it’s usually caused by normal biomechanical functions and not a sign of injury or disease. Possible explanations include:
Cavitation
As discussed earlier, neck cavitation produces clicks as bubbles form and collapse in the synovial fluid around joints. This is a painless everyday phenomenon.
Crepitus
Grating, popping, or cracking sounds from neck tissues rubbing together is called crepitus. It’s common with aging as cartilage wears down.
Muscle Movement
During normal muscle contraction and relaxation, soft tissues can snap over bony areas causing clicking sounds without pain. This is more likely with muscle tightness.
Tendons Gliding
As tendons shift positions over bones and tissues, they can create an audible clicking sensation. Changes in neck position facilitate this gliding.
Releasing Gas
Swallowing or moving the neck can cause trapped gas bubbles to be released from the joints, resulting in a pop.
So in summary, painless clicking is typically normal joint mechanics and not dangerous. Stay aware of other symptoms arising alongside the clicking.
Can Neck Cracking Cause Arthritis?
There is no evidence that cracking your neck leads to developing arthritis. However, those who already have neck arthritis may notice more frequent cracking. Here’s some background on this debate:
No Proven Link
Despite the concerns, most research has found no connection between knuckle cracking and arthritis formation. Neck cracking is likely similar.
Just a Symptom
Those with existing neck arthritis may crack more due to stiff, degrading joints. The clicking is a symptom, not the cause.
Possible Minor Risks
Some studies suggest frequent knuckle cracking may slightly reduce grip strength. Similar impacts on neck stability are possible but unproven.
Habit vs Damage
The cracking itself probably doesn’t cause damage. But overly forceful neck manipulation could. Avoid sudden, straining movements.
Can Cracking your Neck be Dangerous?
Occasional, gentle neck cracking is generally safe. But forcefully manipulating the neck can possibly lead to damage in some cases:
Artery Tears
The vertebral arteries run through the cervical vertebrae. Twisting the neck suddenly increases risk of arterial dissection or blockage.
Bone Fractures
Bones weakened by conditions like osteoporosis may fracture if cracked forcibly. People with arthritis are also prone to injury.
Disk Herniation
The disks between vertebrae can rupture or herniate with abrupt, jarring motions. This can impact nerves.
Sprain or Strain
Quick, uncontrolled motions used when cracking the neck vigorously can lead to muscle or ligament sprains.
The takeaway is to avoid sudden, forceful movements and neck positions that cause strain or pain when cracking your neck. Gentle repeated motion is preferable. See a doctor if you experience pain or neurological symptoms after cracking.
How to Stop Neck Clicking
While mostly harmless, the constant clicking sound can become annoying. Here are some tips to silence a clicking neck:
Improve Posture
Reduce slouching and maintain proper upright spinal alignment. Poor posture strains the neck and creates more pops.
Exercise the Neck
Do targeted stretches and exercises to gently strengthen the neck muscles. This provides stability.
Use Proper Form
When cracking your neck, move slowly and gently. Don’t twist violently or overextend the neck’s range of motion.
Heat Therapy
Applying heat helps relax tight muscles that contribute to clicking. Use a warm compress or take a hot shower.
Massage
Have a professional massage therapists gently work the neck muscles to loosen tissues and decrease tension.
Avoid Sleeping on Stomach
Stomach sleeping twists the neck for prolonged periods contributing to stiffness and cracking. Use a cervical pillow.
How to Crack your Neck Safely
If you want to crack your neck for temporary relief, here are some tips for doing it safely:
Move Slowly
Make cracking motions gently and fluidly. No sudden, forceful movements.
Stay Central
Keep head upright and aligned over the shoulders. Avoid tilting sideways.
Limit Twisting
Minimize rotational neck twisting. Move primarily up and down or side to side.
Use Your Hands
Clasp hands behind the head to guide motion. Don’t pull aggressively.
Stop if Uncomfortable
Any pain, stiffness, or numbness means stop. Don’t push through discomfort.
Avoid Hyperextending
Don’t bend the neck farther back than its natural range of motion.
Try Both Sides
Alternate cracking side to side to avoid overstraining one side only.
Listen to Your Body
If neck soreness persists afterwards, take a break from cracking.
When to See a Doctor for a Clicking Neck
See your doctor promptly if clicking is accompanied by any of the following:
- Sharp neck pain
- Pain, tingling, or numbness radiating down the arms or legs
- Noticeable muscle weakness in the arms or legs
- Headaches, especially after neck movement
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Reduced control over bladder or bowel function
- Visible deformity or swelling in the neck area
- Audible grating or crunching sounds
- Inability to turn or tilt head properly
These may indicate potential injury or neurological conditions requiring prompt medical assessment. Seek emergency care if symptoms are severe.
Professional Medical Options to Stop Clicking
If lifestyle changes don’t silence bothersome neck clicking, your doctor may recommend these medical treatment options:
Prescription Medications
Oral drugs like muscle relaxants or NSAIDs can relieve muscle tightness and swelling related to joint damage.
Cervical Collars
Collars immobilize the neck allowing joint inflammation to decrease while preventing cracking.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapists can prescribe neck strengthening exercises and manual joint mobilization techniques.
Massage Therapy
Deep tissue manipulation by a massage therapist can release neck muscle adhesions and spasms.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractors use joint manipulation and mobilization methods to improve spinal biomechanics.
Surgery
In severe degenerative cases, procedures like spinal fusion or disc replacement may be warranted.
Discuss these options with your doctor to develop an appropriate treatment plan for your situation.
Home Remedies to Relieve Clicking Neck
You can try these natural home remedies to ease neck tension contributing to clicking:
Heat Therapy
Apply a warm compress or take a warm shower to relax the neck muscles.
Cold Therapy
Use an ice pack to reduce inflammation in irritated joints. Limit to 15 minutes.
Epsom Salt Soaks
Soak in a warm Epsom salt bath to boost magnesium levels and unknot muscles.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen can provide relief from neck joint pain.
Arnica
Arnica gels and creams can decrease muscle soreness. Look for homeopathic concentrations.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin which reduces joint inflammation. Take supplements or use topical creams.
White Willow Bark
White willow bark acts as a natural pain reliever due to its salicin content. Available as tea or supplements.
When to Take a Break from Cracking your Neck
Refrain from cracking your neck if you experience:
- Increased pain or stiffness
- Swelling around the neck and shoulders
- Redness, bruising, or tenderness in the neck
- Headaches after neck cracking
- Muscle spasms or cramping
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Dizziness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vision changes
- Ringing in the ears
These may be signs of injury. Allow the neck time to rest and recover before cracking it again. If symptoms persist, see your doctor.
When to See a Chiropractor
Consult a chiropractor if you experience:
- Chronic neck stiffness and reduced mobility
- Sharp neck, shoulder, or arm pain
- Numbness or tingling down the arms or hands
- Headaches originating in the neck
- Radiating pain down the back or legs
- Neck muscle spasms
- Misaligned neck or poor posture
- Inability to turn or tilt head properly
- Popping that won’t stop with home treatment
A chiropractor can assess for underlying joint dysfunction and realign the vertebrae using adjustments and manipulation therapy. They may also recommend rehabilitative exercises.
Best Exercises for a Clicking Neck
Doing regular neck exercises can relieve tension, strengthen muscles, restore range of motion, and reduce clicking. Try these effective options:
Chin Tucks
Tuck chin in gently bringing head backward. Hold 5 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times.
Neck Stretches
Gently tilt head to each side, avoiding overstretching. Hold 20 seconds on each side.
Shoulder Rolls
Roll shoulders up and back in slow circles 10 times clockwise and counter-clockwise.
Upper Trapezius Stretches
Grasp right arm with left hand and gently pull right side down. Hold 20 seconds. Switch sides.
Neck Rotations
Slowly turn head side to side as far as comfortable. Do not push into pain. Repeat 5-10 times per side.
Forward Head Retractions
Start with head extended forward. Slowly pull head straight back keeping level. Repeat 10 times.
Proper Sleeping Positions for a Clicking Neck
Sleeping in awkward positions can worsen neck stiffness and clicking. Use these tips:
Back Sleeping
Sleep on back keeping head in line with spine. Place thin pillow under knees to prevent strain.
Side Sleeping
Rest on side with a firm, high pillow keeping head aligned with neck and spine. Avoid twisting.
Try a Cervical Pillow
They are designed to support the head and neck maintaining proper alignment.
Don’t Use Too Many Pillows
Overstacking pillows strains the neck. Find one comfortable pillow that keeps the neck straight.
Consider a Neck Brace
Wearing a soft cervical collar prevents rolling into bad positions during sleep.
Avoid Stomach Sleeping
This twists the neck for prolonged periods and should be avoided if possible.
Conclusion
Hearing cracking or popping sounds in your neck can be alarming but is usually harmless. It’s most often caused by everyday wear and tear of the cervical facet joints. Clicking may occur more frequently with age but doesn’t inherently signify injury or illness if no pain exists. Avoid any sudden, twisting movements when cracking your neck to prevent damaging tissues. Utilize conservative treatment strategies like posture correction, targeted exercises, heat therapy, and proper head support during sleep. If bothersome clicking won’t abate or other worrisome symptoms arise, seek medical guidance to assess the neck and address the underlying causes. With a little attentive self-care, you can successfully gain relief from that clicking neck.