Expert: Dr. Victor Dolan, DC, DACBSP - 6/9/2008

Question
Understanding the disclaimer of not being able to give a true diagnosis without being seen, I have brief question.  Noises in neck when moving neck, no pain, had bone density test year and a half ago, nothing said about neck.  It is the basic crunching noise.  Also, could this in any way (neck crepitus) manifest itself in ear noises, not ringing, but just sounds like constant "white noise".  Anyway, both very annoying!!  I know alot of "that stuff" is all connected around the neck, face, ears, etc.  Thank you.

Answer
Neck crepitus, neck pain, noises in the neck, bone density.

Hello Jackie Martin,

I'll start with bone density.  To my knowledge, joint noises, 'bone noises', do not have anything to do with bone density.  - trying to be funny, , , if you have a poor bone density, perhaps you may hear a  noise if and when a  >crack<  fracture takes place.  

Bone density testing is usually a sophisticated type of imaging done at the wrist and/or hip and/or lower back.   Regular x-rays can show a loss of bone density, but when regular flat plate routine x-rays show a loss of bone, there has been at least a 30% - 40% loss of bone.  
Actual  bone density testing is more sophisticated and can give you percentage loss, and where the patient stands in relation to others of the same sex/ age/ race. Bone density testing that I am aware of would not involve the neck (cervical spine) and would not specifically comment upon the neck.

Crepitus, noise without pain,,, joints make noise.  Making noise does not have to mean anything good or bad;  joints make noise.  That being said, I would take an x-ray of the area to evaluate for osteoarthritic degeneration, any type of joint deterioration or joint irregularity.  

Some people feel that the noises you hear could precede joint degeneration.  I do not think so, having patients who have had noisy joints for years, with no degeneration.  But- if you have concern about your joints, there is nothing wrong with some preventative nutrition, some preventative care.  A multivitamin, antioxidants, glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, SAMe, omega 3 EFAs; these supplements all should help.  Keeping your joints flexible, mobile, and properly aligned slows or prevents degeneration - -  go the the local family Doctor of Chiropractic for adjustments that may be needed.

I hope this helps.  As always, this article is for discussion purposes only.  This article is not for specific recommendation or prescription.  Evaluation, dx, tx, rx, px can only be made in person by a treating health professional.

Wishing you good luck nd good health naturally- your staten island chiropractor,

Dr. Victor Dolan, DC
www.DocDolan.net
www.GoodHealthNaturally.info
http://drvictordolan.chiroweb.com