Cracking your neck until you hear a popping sound might temporarily relieve stiffness, but making it a habit can lead to serious cervical disc problems.
The sound produced when twisting the neck is often caused by partial dislocation of neck joints, which leads to friction between bones and ligaments. Excessive twisting stresses the joints and impacts surrounding tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.
Dr. Jae Hyun Lim, Director of the Spine Center at Gangnam Nanoori Hospital, explained that frequent neck twisting can damage the discs that absorb shock in the cervical spine. Increased joint friction stresses the disc tissue, potentially leading to cervical disc issues.
Cervical disc problems occur when the discs between vertebrae become displaced due to aging or external factors, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.
Poor lifestyle habits can also contribute to cervical disc problems. Constantly twisting the neck, using excessively high pillows, or leaning forward while working on a computer or watching a screen are common causes.
When symptoms persist despite six weeks of treatment, surgery may be necessary. The severity of pain varies depending on the progression of the condition. Early symptoms often include stiffness, pain in the neck and shoulders, and tingling in the hands.
Non-surgical treatments such as braces, heat therapy, medication, and physical therapy are typically recommended for mild symptoms. However, if symptoms persist after six weeks and interfere with daily activities, surgical options may need to be considered.
Minimally invasive cervical disc surgery is now widely used. This procedure involves local anesthesia and an endoscope to visualize and remove the damaged tissue. The thin endoscope minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues and leaves only tiny scars. Additionally, the reduced bleeding lowers the risk of complications for patients with underlying conditions like diabetes.
Dr. Lim noted that cervical disc problems are increasingly affecting younger individuals, making a quick recovery essential. Spinal endoscopy allows patients to return home within 2-3 days, offering an efficient treatment option.
Proper posture prevents cervical disc issues, particularly when sitting long. Screens should be positioned at eye level, with the top slightly below to avoid straining the neck.
Even with correct posture, remaining in the same position for extended periods can stress the neck. Taking short breaks every 30-60 minutes to gently stretch the neck backward can help relieve tension and prevent stiffness.
Dr. Lim advised avoiding forceful or abrupt neck movements during stretching, emphasizing that the neck is delicate and requires gentle, controlled motions to maintain health.
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