Adjusting your back once in a while so that it cracks is normal, and for the most part, pretty safe. It can be helpful for relieving pressure and tension in the joints. One study even showed that after cracking a joint the joint’s range of motion improves slightly. However, overly frequent cracking or popping with regular movement might have you asking, “Why does my back keep cracking all the time?” 

4 reasons why your back might keep cracking frequently

1. Soft tissue damage — Soft tissue damage can result in frequent popping or cracking sounds in the back and can often be painful.

2. Spinal disc movement — A fragment of one of the discs in your vertebrae can move, which results in clicking or cracking noises coming from your back.

4. Arthritis — The joints in your back can wear down with age and can cause a grinding feeling in your back that is accompanied by clicking, cracking or snapping sounds.
5. Connective tissue movement — Connective tissue can make noises when it stretches and then returns back into its natural position.

If you experience pain with your back cracking, it’s a good idea to consult a professional. If your back noises are not spaced out within a few minutes, it may also then be a good idea to talk with a health care professional about why your back keeps cracking. If you’re experiencing general back pain without any popping, check out our post about three types of exercises you can do to help reduce lower back pain.

Continuum Wellness can help treat your back cracking

Are you still not sure how a physical therapist can help you address why your back keeps cracking? Do you have any other questions or concerns you’d like to ask about, but you’re not sure if physical therapy is the best way to treat your specific health needs? At Continuum Wellness, we are specially trained to help diagnose and address issues that may be causing your back cracking. If you’re worried about the frequency of your back cracking, consider checking out our many resources and specialties. We offer free screenings to answer any of your questions, discuss options for treatment and aid in your journey toward better health! We also offer at-home treatment as well as virtual treatment to best fit your needs.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.