Many people associate chiropractic adjustments with a popping or cracking sound. While this sound is common during some adjustments, it is not what makes an adjustment successful. An effective treatment does not require a “pop.”

Key Insight:

The popping sound associated with an adjustment is generally related to a rapid change in pressure within a joint and the formation of a gas cavity in the joint fluid, a process known as cavitation. The sound itself is not the therapeutic goal.

During certain chiropractic techniques, a joint is moved through a controlled range of motion. This can create a rapid pressure change within the joint and produce an audible pop. Other adjustments and mobilization techniques may produce little or no sound while still influencing joint movement and function.

A louder pop does not mean that an adjustment was better, that more bones “moved,” or that the treatment was more effective. Likewise, the absence of a sound does not mean that nothing happened.

The purpose of chiropractic care is to address factors such as joint mobility, movement, function, and musculoskeletal symptoms not simply to create a noise. Chiropractors may use different techniques depending on the patient’s condition, examination findings, age, comfort, and treatment goals.

This is especially important when treating patients after an injury. The appropriate technique should be selected based on the individual examination rather than attempting to produce a particular sound.

So, while the familiar “pop” can occur during chiropractic care, it is only a sound associated with joint mechanics. What matters more is how the joint moves, how the patient functions, and whether care is helping achieve meaningful clinical goals.

Interested in improving your mobility and function? Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and discuss an individualized treatment plan.

Contact Us:
Dr. Peter Britton, DC & Dr. Alyssa Lenox, DC
1111 N. Northgate Way
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206-523-2225
Appointments can be made on our website: https://intouchwithhealthseattle.com/home

Sources:

• Kawchuk GN, Fryer J, Jaremko JL, et al. Real-Time Visualization of Joint Cavitation. PLoS One.

• Cramer GD, Ross K, Pocius J, et al. Evaluating the Relationship Among Cavitation, Zygapophyseal Joint Gapping, and Spinal Manipulation. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.

• Flynn TW, Fritz JM, Wainner RS, Whitman JM. The Audible Pop Is Not Necessary for Successful Spinal High-Velocity Thrust Manipulation in Individuals With Low Back Pain. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.