Understand the harmless cause behind the cracking or popping noise during adjustments.
Nope — your bones aren’t breaking. Let’s clear this up once and for all.
If you’ve ever had a chiropractic adjustment (or watched one online), you’ve probably heard that distinctive pop, crack, or click. Some people find it weirdly satisfying. Others tense up, thinking something just snapped.
Here’s the truth: it’s completely normal, totally safe, and not what you think it is.
So, What Is That Sound?
The popping noise you hear during a chiropractic adjustment is called a joint cavitation. It’s not your bones cracking — it’s simply gas releasing from the joint.
Joints are surrounded by a fluid called synovial fluid. That fluid helps lubricate your joints and reduce friction. It also contains gases like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. When a chiropractor applies a precise, quick movement to a joint (aka an adjustment), it creates a small change in joint pressure — kind of like a vacuum — and that causes gas bubbles to rapidly release.
That’s the sound. Just air. Not drama.
Does the Pop Mean the Adjustment Worked?
Not necessarily — and that’s important. The sound doesn’t mean success, and no sound doesn’t mean failure. Some adjustments create cavitation, others don’t. What matters more is joint mobility, nervous system response, and how your body feels and functions afterward.
At YFS, we’re not chasing sound effects — we’re chasing results. Sometimes the work is subtle. Sometimes it’s loud. Either way, it’s all about helping you move and feel better.
Is It Supposed to Hurt?
Nope. Adjustments should never be painful. You might feel pressure, release, or a bit of soreness afterward (especially if your body’s tight), but it shouldn’t be uncomfortable or scary. If anything feels off, we adjust our approach.
We also offer low-force techniques for people who prefer a gentler option — still effective, just without the pop.
Bottom Line?
The popping sound during an adjustment is just your body letting go of some built-up pressure. It’s safe, normal, and nothing to stress about. And while it might sound intense, it’s just one small part of a much bigger picture — helping your body move, heal, and function at its best.
Still unsure? Ask us to walk you through it at your next visit. No surprises here — just solid care that makes sense.
