Chiropractic Myths

One of the most common myths surrounding chiropractic is the idea that a chiropractor “cracks” your back, but that’s not the only one. Here’s the real deal:

MYTH: Chiropractic treatment involves cracking my spine.
FACT: One part of chiropractic treatment involves applying quick, precise pressure to joints, which creates a cracking or popping noise. This is called an adjustment. The popping noise doesn’t come from your bones, but rather from a the release of a gas bubble that occurs when two joints are separated. This process is just like what happens when you pop your knuckles or scrunch up your toes first thing in the morning.

MYTH: Nobody should use so much pressure on my spine. That can’t be right.
FACT: A chiropractic adjustment actually does not involve a great deal of force. Skill, positioning, speed and timing are more important than force.

MYTH: I’ve heard that cracking your joints can cause arthritis.
FACT: There is no evidence-based reason to think that there is a connection between cavitation and arthritis. In fact, a chiropractic adjustment increases mobility; reduces pressure on the joints, muscles and nerves; and allows the spine to return to a natural position.