If you’ve been sitting for a long period of time and get up to stretch, you might hear some popping and cracking sounds. Cracking your back can leave you feeling good and like you’ve relieved some pressure off of your spine. But do you actually know what is happening when you crack your back? It is more common for people to twist and stretch after sitting for long periods of time and hear pops or cracks in their lower back. It is also possible to crack your upper back. Depending on what is causing your pain and discomfort, upper back cracking is a type of back pain treatment that may bring you lasting relief. Here’s what you need to know about how to crack your upper back and how a chiropractor can help.
Why Back Cracking Offers Relief
Whether you pop your knuckles or crack your back, you know that familiar sound followed by a sense of relief. Cracking the joints in your body redistributes the soft tissues that support the bones, and any buildup of gases crack or pop as they are released. These gases can cause a buildup of pressure on your joints, which may signal your want or need to crack your back. When you relieve that pressure, it causes a natural release. Your body will also release natural chemicals in the area, like endorphins, which can leave you feeling happy and leave you feeling satisfied after the movements. With this natural, positive response to cracking your back, it is no wonder that people aim for that experience again and again.
Gentle Techniques to Crack Your Upper Back
When it comes to cracking your upper back, you want to only use techniques that are gentle and safe. If you find yourself trying to crack your own back often, then talk to your chiropractor about what techniques you use, and they may recommend other alternatives with longer-lasting benefits and results. One gentle way of cracking your upper back after a long day of sitting hunched over a desk or computer is to use your chair. Slide your hips and buttocks forward to the end of your chair and lean back so that your upper back is resting against the top of your chair. Then place your hands on your forehead and allow your shoulders and back to slowly release with the backward leaning movement.
Dangers of Upper Back Cracking by Yourself
Whenever you try to crack your upper back on your own, you should never experience more pain or discomfort afterward. Cracking your back too forcefully on your own can strain or tear muscles in your upper back, shoulders, and neck. The muscles that support your spine can lose their strength and range of motion when injured, making certain movements uncomfortable. If you try to crack your upper back too hard, it could also lead to a pinched nerve or damage blood vessels in the area. This can also limit mobility and even restrict blood flow in your body. A pinched nerve can cause other uncomfortable symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness. The good news is that there are safe ways for how to crack your upper back by yourself, including stretches, exercises, and gentle physical activities like yoga or Pilates.
Visit a Professional Chiropractor for Upper Back Cracking
If you have been sitting a long time, carrying heavy things, or working from home and experiencing back pain, chiropractic can help! Talk to a chiropractor near you to get a thorough assessment of your spine and learn what might be causing your need to experience the relief from cracking your upper back. Whether you are struggling with poor posture due to long hours at a desk or are recovering from an injury, a chiropractor can walk you through ways to experience lasting relief and healing. Chiropractors work with the spine, joints, and the entire musculoskeletal system to improve healthy functioning throughout your whole body. They use techniques known as spinal adjustments or manipulations that are a professional way of cracking your upper back safely and effectively. Your chiropractor can also talk to you about ways to supplement your chiropractic appointments with safe and therapeutic activities at home.
Visit AICA Orthopedics in Atlanta to learn more about back pain treatment with our team of spine doctors, orthopedists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and more.