Neck Popping Sensations: When to See a Specialist

The sensation of popping or cracking in the neck?

Hello, doctor.
I have a question: Since middle school, I have occasionally experienced a sensation on the right side of my neck, as if something is snapping.
Sometimes it feels like it extends from the top of my head to my right shoulder.
The intensity varies; sometimes it's very mild, and other times it's quite strong.
Occasionally, just turning my head triggers this sensation.
Could this be caused by poor posture, such as having my head too far forward or tilted to one side? It has been happening more frequently now.
Should I see a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist? Occasionally, I also feel this sensation on the left side, but it is mostly on the right.
Thank you!

Zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/01

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, the most common cause of abnormal muscle twitching in the left side of the neck is cervical myofascial instability.
Prolonged periods of looking down can lead to overuse of the trapezius muscle in the back of the neck, resulting in neck and shoulder pain.
Initially, resting may alleviate the pain, but it can progressively worsen and disrupt normal activities.
Some patients experience severe neck pain upon waking, accompanied by stiffness, tightness, and intolerable pain levels.

I recommend the following strategies:
1.
Change Positions: Alter your posture every 15 minutes to allow the neck tissues to rest.
Maintaining any position (including a normal one) for an extended period can lead to tissue fatigue and inflammation, so brief movements can reduce the risk of muscle inflammation.
2.
Rest: Resting allows the muscles to utilize their self-repair capabilities; avoid strenuous activities during this time.
3.
Neck Heat Therapy: Apply heat for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the temperature is safe to avoid burns.
4.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): If you do not have a history of peptic ulcers, allergies to NSAIDs, or impaired kidney function, consider using NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain as needed.
5.
Neck Muscle Stretching Exercises: After the acute pain phase, develop a habit of performing slow and gentle neck stretches every 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the angles do not cause discomfort.

If these self-care methods do not yield results, it may be necessary to consider cervical spinal instability.
I suggest consulting a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and well-being.

Dr.
Jiang, Neurology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2018/12/01

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the popping sensations in your neck. It’s important to understand that neck popping or cracking sounds can be quite common and are often benign. However, the sensations you describe, particularly the feeling of being "popped" or "snapped" in your neck, warrant a closer look, especially since they have become more frequent.

Understanding Neck Popping Sensations
The popping or cracking sounds you hear when moving your neck are typically caused by the movement of joints and the release of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. This phenomenon is known as cavitation. However, if these sensations are accompanied by discomfort, pain, or other neurological symptoms, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires further evaluation.

Possible Causes
1. Postural Issues: Poor posture, especially with the head leaning forward or to one side, can lead to muscle tension and strain in the neck. This can result in discomfort and the sensation of popping when you move your head. Over time, poor posture can lead to structural changes in the cervical spine, which may exacerbate these sensations.

2. Cervical Spondylosis: This age-related condition involves the degeneration of the cervical spine, including the discs and joints. It can lead to stiffness, pain, and the sensation of popping as the vertebrae move against each other.

3. Muscle Tension: Tight muscles in the neck and shoulders can contribute to the sensation of popping. Muscle spasms or tension can create a feeling of tightness and may lead to a sensation of being "snapped" when you turn your head.

4. Nerve Impingement: If a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, it can lead to unusual sensations, including popping or snapping. This may be accompanied by pain, tingling, or weakness in the arms.

5. Joint Dysfunction: Conditions such as facet joint dysfunction can also lead to popping sensations. The facet joints in the cervical spine can become irritated or inflamed, leading to discomfort and audible sounds during movement.

When to See a Specialist
Given that your symptoms have become more frequent and are affecting your daily life, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You may consider seeing either a neurologist or a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist).
- Neurologist: If you are experiencing any neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands, a neurologist can help assess for any nerve-related issues.

- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist: If your symptoms are primarily related to musculoskeletal issues, a physiatrist can evaluate your posture, muscle strength, and overall function. They can also provide a tailored rehabilitation program to address any underlying muscular or postural problems.

Recommended Actions
1. Posture Correction: Focus on maintaining good posture, especially if you spend long hours sitting at a desk. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace can help.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and teach you proper body mechanics.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate regular breaks during prolonged activities, and consider activities such as yoga or stretching to alleviate tension in the neck.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of when the popping occurs and any associated symptoms. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while neck popping can be a normal occurrence, the increase in frequency and associated sensations you describe should be evaluated by a specialist. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life. Please do not hesitate to seek medical advice for a thorough assessment.

Wishing you good health,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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