Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 12/16/2007

Question
QUESTION: "Hello, The question I have is I have had a cracking sound in my neck when I turn it. It is so annoying and has been there for about 5 months. After a serious car injury when I was rear ended, I went to my D.O. who said I didn't have whip lash but put me on muscle relaxants and that was 6 month prior to this popping and cracking sound. Now I am seeing a chiropractor. She said the facets were locking and that was what was causing the noise. I have had 11 treatments with her and no relief from the sound. In fact when I went to her I was pain free and since I have gone to her I have nothing but tight muscles and soreness. I don't know if I should continue ? I have been to other chiropractors and not had this experience. What do you think . I am 48 years old. Thank You Jan"

and was asked on 12/14/2007


ANSWER: It is normal, when treatment is started, to hear some noise and to experience tightness.  Are you having any therapies done (ultrasound, electric stim, etc)?  These can sometimes decrease that feeling and the tightness.  Your next step should be a rehab program designed to strengthen the neck and upper back muscles.  It is quite probable that you had whiplash.  studies have shown that an accident occurring with a speed of as little as 5 MPH can cause this type of injury.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Would you continue with chiropractic care as I have seen no results and almost feel as though I am getting worse after 11 visits and perhaps try PT.  The chiropractor that I am seeing now does no ultrasound or electric stim.  She just does the roller bed and cervical traction.

Answer
I would try to do the therapy concurrent with your treatment.  The electric stim. and ultrasound all go towards relaxing the muscles.  The roller table will do nothing for the neck, and the traction will work only if there is a disc issue.  If there is no disc issue, it can aggravate what you are feeling.