For some people, the thought of having their neck “cracked” is enough to keep them from ever making a chiropractic appointment.

Maybe you’ve seen videos of dramatic neck adjustments online. Maybe you’ve had an uncomfortable experience in the past. Or maybe you simply don’t like the idea of having your neck twisted or hearing a popping sound.

The good news is that chiropractic care doesn’t have to involve any of those things.

What Actually Makes the Cracking Sound?

The popping or cracking sound that can occur during some types of manual chiropractic adjustments is called joint cavitation. It happens when pressure changes within a joint cause dissolved gases in the joint fluid to form a bubble that rapidly changes or collapses.

But that sound isn’t what makes an adjustment effective. And not hearing a pop doesn’t mean that nothing happened.

There are different ways to adjust a joint, including techniques that use much less force and don’t produce the familiar cracking sound.

A Gentler Option: The Activator Method

At Affinity Chiropractic, I use the Activator Method, a low-force chiropractic technique that uses a small handheld instrument to deliver a quick, controlled impulse to a specific area.

Unlike a traditional manual neck adjustment, the Activator Method does not require me to twist your head or quickly rotate your neck. Most patients simply feel a small tap from the instrument.

The amount of force and the location of the adjustment can be precisely controlled, which makes it a good option for people who are uncomfortable with traditional manual adjustments.

You can learn more about the Activator Method and chiropractic care at Affinity Chiropractic.

Does a Gentle Adjustment Still Work?

Gentle doesn’t necessarily mean ineffective.

Research comparing instrument-assisted chiropractic adjustments with manual manipulation has found that both approaches can provide benefits for some people with musculoskeletal pain. However, research comparing different chiropractic techniques is limited, and no single technique has been shown to be best for everyone.

That’s one reason your care should be based on your individual condition, comfort level, and goals rather than assuming everyone needs the same type of adjustment.

Tell Your Chiropractor What Makes You Uncomfortable

If you’re nervous about having your neck adjusted, say so.

You should understand what is going to be done before treatment begins and feel comfortable asking questions. At Affinity Chiropractic, I explain the Activator Method during your first visit and discuss what to expect before beginning care.

You can also tell me if there is something you don’t want done. Being nervous about a particular technique shouldn’t mean you have to avoid seeking help for neck pain altogether.

If you’re considering chiropractic care but have been putting it off because you’re afraid of having your neck cracked, learn what to expect at your first visit.

There may be a much gentler approach than you expected.