I would like to welcome you to the EmpowHER community. What you are asking about is referred to as neck cracking. Some people will twist and turn the neck habitually to relieve tension.
There are three possible explanations for the cracking sound you hear when you turn your head.
The neck is made up of seven cervical bones called vertebrae that are supported by muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These provide mobility and support to the head and neck, allowing us to bend, twist, and move without stress. However, persistent stress can cause the neck to produce a cracking sound when twisted. Generally, this may be harmless.
Diseases like osteoporosis and arthritis may be characterized by joint roughening. These conditions lead to degenerative bone changes in the neck that cause cracking when moved.
Synovial fluid, which is a thick fluid that surrounds each of the seven neck joints, provides lubrication to facilitate their movements. This fluid contains nitrogen and carbon dioxide gas, which can form bubbles. Moving the neck joints can increase pressure in the bubbles, causing popping, or bursting of these bubbles. This process, called cavitation, is heard as a cracking sound, and is the leading cause of neck cracking.
Anonymous, consult your physician if you begin to experience pain.
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Hello Anonymous,
I would like to welcome you to the EmpowHER community. What you are asking about is referred to as neck cracking. Some people will twist and turn the neck habitually to relieve tension.
There are three possible explanations for the cracking sound you hear when you turn your head.
The neck is made up of seven cervical bones called vertebrae that are supported by muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These provide mobility and support to the head and neck, allowing us to bend, twist, and move without stress. However, persistent stress can cause the neck to produce a cracking sound when twisted. Generally, this may be harmless.
Diseases like osteoporosis and arthritis may be characterized by joint roughening. These conditions lead to degenerative bone changes in the neck that cause cracking when moved.
Synovial fluid, which is a thick fluid that surrounds each of the seven neck joints, provides lubrication to facilitate their movements. This fluid contains nitrogen and carbon dioxide gas, which can form bubbles. Moving the neck joints can increase pressure in the bubbles, causing popping, or bursting of these bubbles. This process, called cavitation, is heard as a cracking sound, and is the leading cause of neck cracking.
Anonymous, consult your physician if you begin to experience pain.
Regards,
August 19, 2014 - 8:25amMaryann
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