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Question
Whenever I keep my backs straight, most of the time while I'm sitting, I take deep breaths which result in me hearing my upper back crack. Is this harmful? Is there a way to prevent this? What can it do to my body? Am I sitting wrong? Basically, I wish to know all about this.

Answer
John,

The crack sounds are not harmful or abnormal.  It's just joint noise.  It may be coming from your neck, upper back, or rib areas.  So long as it's not pain along with crack sounds, then don't worry about it.  Some people's bones make more noise than others.  Some can easily arch back over a chair or twist and make lots of cracks.  If the cracking is uncomfortable, or if it is repetitive such that you cannot prevent it, then see a chiropractor and note if there are any mechanical issues that could be lending itself to the cracking.  

Hope this helps,

Dr. G

Chiropractors

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Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP

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21 Years in practice: I can answer any question regarding chiropractic and sports medicine treatment. Mostly, I can help the unknowing public understand what is safe, valid, reasonable and evidence-based, and what kinds of unscrupulous chiropractors and fraudulent methods to stay away from. I have an advanced specialty degree in Chiropractic Sports Medicine. I have experience treating elite and Olympic athletes.

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