You are here:

Chiropractors/Neck noise

Expert: Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP - 7/2/2009

Question
Hi,

I have Arnold Chiari malformaation with 5mm. Also, upon a recent neck xray said:
No comparison. All seven cervical vertebrae are identified in the lateral
projection. There is straightening of the normal cervical lordosis which
may be due to degenerative changes, muscle spasm or positioning. Mild
degenerative changes are noted at the atlantoaxial space. Base narrowing
is noted which is severe at C5-6 with mild degenerative endplate change.
There are mild degenerative facet changes. There is no evidence of
fracture or subluxation. Prevertebral soft tissues are unremarkable. No
significant neural foramen narrowing is noted.
IMPRESSION: DEGENERATIVE CHANGES OF CERVICAL SPINE, AS DESCRIBED.

So, my sister bought one of those expensive self massaging chairs and I used it. While using it it also rolls these balls up your neck.

I stopped because I felt as if it hurt my neck. Every since after using it, when I look down with my head, bending my neck I hear all kinds of crackling & noise. Whats going on in there?

Thanks

Answer
Linda,

Neck joints will make noise if they are irritated, degenerated, or in any state of dysfunction. Most folks with degenerative changes will have gravel or sandy sounds. Popping that is painful may be a sign of inflammated joints. Popping that is alleviating to neck pain or stiffness is more likely a sign of joint dysfunction, and this may be amenable to chiropractic joint manipulation and soft tissue therapy.

I'd suggest giving up the balls and toys and getting the real (professional) thing...

'Regards,

Dr. G

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 10	Politeness = 10
Comment	Thank you! Appreciate your reply.

Ask a Question

Chiropractors

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP

Expertise

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.

Experience

Experience:

21 years in practice;
Pan American Games, 2011: Official Medical Staff for the Pan Am Games.
Beijing 2008 Olympic Games: World Olympians Associan and International Sports Chiropractic Association Healthcare Team;
International Chiropractic Sports Sciences Diploma;
Official Provider: Jamaican Track and Field team for Penn Relays (2009-2011)
Experience with USA Gymnastics Healthcare team and International Powerlifting Association Medical Staff;
300 hour chiropractic sports medicine diplomate degree (DACBSP); International Chiropractic Sports Sciences Diploma (ICSSD)
Healthcare Consultant: Century, Ty-Wood Corp. Holliston, MA (2005-2007)
Team Chiropractor: Boston Bulldogs USL D-3 & Boston Renegades USL W-1 League (1999-2004)
Independent Examiner: Scope Medical and The Physician's Network
Professional/Clinical Monitor: Affiliated Monitors, Inc.
Board of Directors: MetroWest Chamber of Commerce (Massachusetts)2000-2006

Publications:

"The Impact of Chiropractic Manipulative Therapy on Chronic Recurrent Lateral Ankle Sprain Syndrome in Two Young Athletes" J. of Chiro Med , Fall 2004
"Work Related Injury;" The Hanover Report, June, 1993
"Long Lasting Analgesic Effect of Oxymorphonazine in Rats;" Agonists and Antagonists III, n.7675, 1985

Education/Credentials:

BS Biology, Doctor of Chiropractic: Northwestern College of Chiropractic,
Diplomate: American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (DACBSP)

Education/Credentials
Doctor of Chiropractic Diplomate: American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians

Encyclopedia

Browse Answers:

Chiropractors/Neck noise

Related Articles

Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP

Expertise

Experience