Is Neck Cracking During Rotation Normal? Your Symptoms

Q: Is Neck Cracking During Rotation Normal? Your Symptoms

Hello： The sounds you mentioned are primarily due to friction occurring between the joint surfaces, the cartilage pads, and the tendons and joint capsule during joint movement. <br>In most individuals, these sounds are not prominent, while in some, they may be more noticeable. <b

Cervical rotation exercises produce cracking or popping sounds?

Hello, Doctor.
For the past couple of days, I've been experiencing tight pain in the left occipital region, and my neck and shoulders seem quite stiff.
Therefore, I did some neck rotation exercises (similar to warm-up exercises where you rotate your neck).
I rotated my neck at quite a deep angle (but I did it slowly, as I was afraid to go too fast), and during the rotation, I could hear cracking sounds from my neck.
Is this normal? After completing the rotations, I felt that the angle was too large, and the pain in the occipital region seemed to worsen.
It didn't improve, so I couldn't take it anymore and went to sleep.
When I woke up in the middle of the night, the pain was gone.
After checking some information online, I found that occipital pain could potentially be related to vertebral artery dissection, and I'm quite worried.
Given that I performed neck rotations at a large and deep angle and heard cracking sounds during the movement, could this behavior lead to vertebral artery dissection? I'm a bit concerned but unsure whether I should see a doctor.
I would appreciate your clarification and advice.
Thank you.

A Xin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/31

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: The sounds you mentioned are primarily due to friction occurring between the joint surfaces, the cartilage pads, and the tendons and joint capsule during joint movement.
In most individuals, these sounds are not prominent, while in some, they may be more noticeable.
If there is no pain and no accompanying functional impairment, these sounds are considered physiological clicks.
Regarding vertebral artery dissection, more than half of the patients have hypertension issues.
When it occurs, in addition to severe headaches, there are often mild neurological symptoms such as dizziness, slurred speech, weakness in the limbs, drooping eyelids, or facial paralysis.
It is recommended that you consult with a rehabilitation specialist for discussion and treatment.
If you are still concerned about vertebral artery issues, you may seek an examination from a neurologist.
Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Tao, Neurology Department, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/10/31

More Info

Neck cracking during rotation, often referred to as "cervical crepitus," is a common phenomenon that many people experience. It can occur when you rotate or flex your neck, and the sound is typically caused by the movement of air bubbles in the synovial fluid of the joints, the movement of ligaments, or the rubbing of tendons against bones. While it can be alarming to hear these sounds, they are generally harmless if not accompanied by pain or discomfort.

However, in your case, you mentioned experiencing tightness and pain in the left occipital region (the back of your head) and stiffness in your neck. This could indicate underlying issues such as muscle tension, strain, or even cervical spine problems. The fact that you felt more pain after performing deep neck rotations suggests that you may have exacerbated an existing condition. It’s important to listen to your body; if a movement causes pain, it’s best to avoid it.

Regarding your concern about vertebral artery dissection, it is a rare but serious condition that can occur due to trauma or excessive neck movements. It involves a tear in the artery wall, which can lead to a stroke. While neck cracking itself is not typically a direct cause of vertebral artery dissection, aggressive or rapid neck movements, especially in individuals with pre-existing vascular issues, can increase the risk. If you have a history of neck injuries, vascular conditions, or if you experience symptoms such as severe headache, dizziness, or neurological deficits (like weakness or numbness), it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

In your situation, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist, to evaluate your symptoms. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess the condition of your cervical spine and rule out any serious issues. Additionally, they can provide guidance on appropriate neck exercises and stretches that can help alleviate tension without risking injury.

In the meantime, consider implementing some self-care strategies. Gentle stretching, heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain relief medications may help reduce muscle tension and discomfort. Practicing good posture and avoiding prolonged periods of neck strain can also be beneficial. If you find that your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

In summary, while neck cracking can be normal, your symptoms of pain and tightness warrant further investigation. It’s essential to prioritize your health and consult with a medical professional to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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