Joint adjustments, or manipulations, are commonly performed by Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, and Osteopathic Physicians. It's important to understand what's happening in your body during these adjustments and why some people even get "addicted" to them.
First we need to understand what makes that popping/cracking sound, called cavitations. Cavitations can be heard when a chiropractor or other healthcare provider performs a joint manipulation. These sounds occur when gas bubbles within the synovial fluid in the joint are rapidly formed and then collapse.
When a joint is manipulated, it causes the bones to move beyond their normal range of motion. This movement creates a drop in pressure within the joint, which can cause the gases in the synovial fluid to rapidly form bubbles. When these bubbles collapse, it creates a popping or cracking sound.
The physiological effects of cavitations are continuously being studied, but some researchers believe that they may help to temporarily improve joint mobility and decrease pain. Additionally, cavitations may help to release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers produced by the body. Some research is even beginning to show that there is a temporary change along nerve pathways after a manipulation that decreases the pain along the nerve that corresponds to the spinal level that was manipulated.
It is important to note that while cavitations are a common occurrence during joint manipulations, they are not always necessary for the manipulation to be effective. The presence or absence of cavitations does not necessarily indicate the success or failure of the manipulation.
Now that we understand cavitations and some of its physiological effects, let's briefly discuss how manipulations affect joint mobility/stability. There is some debate in the scientific community over whether joint manipulations can cause joint instability. Some studies suggest that joint manipulations may temporarily reduce joint stability, while others suggest that they may actually improve stability.
One study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that cervical spine manipulation did not significantly affect cervical joint position sense or stability in healthy adults. However, another study published in the same journal found that lumbar spine manipulation may temporarily reduce lumbar spine stability in healthy adults.
It is important to note that joint instability is a complex condition with many potential causes, including traumatic injury, degenerative conditions, and genetic factors. While joint manipulations may have some effect on joint stability, it is unlikely that they would be the sole cause of joint instability.
If you are concerned about joint stability, it is best to speak with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your individual condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
In summary, the answer is a bit more complicated than yes or no for if a manipulation is good for you. It can decrease pain due to the release of endorphines, and in restricted joints, can create at least a short term increase in mobility, but manipulations are not for everyone and should not be used in every case. Especially for hypermobile individuals, repeatedly moving the joints to the limits of their physiological barriers may not be safe or effective. If you have any hesitation about receiving joint manipulations, you should consult with a physician prior to having these treatments performed.
Sources:
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Dishman, J. D., & Burke, J. (2003). Spinal reflex excitability changes after cervical and lumbar spinal manipulation: a comparative study. Spine, 28(8), 789-795.
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