Health & Fitness
Tue, November 25, 2025
Mon, November 24, 2025
Neck-Cracking May Put You at Risk for Stroke, Experts Warn
//health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. may-put-you-at-risk-for-stroke-experts-warn.html
Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, November 25th 2025 at 3:14 GMT by TheHealthSite- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Neck‑Cracking May Put You at Risk for Stroke, Experts Warn
A recent story on The Health Site cautions that the casual, often unconscious habit of cracking one’s neck could be more than just a harmless way to relieve tension—it may actually increase the likelihood of serious, life‑threatening complications, including stroke. The article, written by seasoned health journalist Sarah Hall, brings together a mix of medical research, expert commentary, and real‑world anecdotes to outline why doctors are taking a hard look at the “twist‑and‑pop” routine.
The Habit and How It’s Perceived
Most adults have cracked their neck at least once—sometimes out of habit, sometimes in response to a stiff shoulder, or simply because they’re used to it. The article starts with a brief survey of how common the practice is: “About 80% of people admit to having cracked their neck in the last year,” says Hall. While the sound of a crack can be satisfying and often accompanied by a temporary feeling of looseness, the story quickly pivots to explain why this everyday activity may carry hidden dangers.
What Happens When You Crack Your Neck?
When a neck is twisted or pulled, the vertebrae and surrounding ligaments can produce a popping or cracking sound. Hall explains that the sound originates from gas bubbles forming and popping in the synovial fluid of the joints—a phenomenon known as arthrogryposis (the correct term is arthrography, though). This is normally harmless and can be repeated many times without obvious consequences.
However, the article delves into a specific medical concern: cervical artery dissection. A cervical artery dissection occurs when a tear in the inner lining of the carotid or vertebral arteries lets blood flow between the layers of the artery wall. Hall notes that while the incidence is low—about 1 in 10,000 per year—the consequences can be catastrophic, leading to a cerebral ischemic stroke. This is the kind of stroke that happens when an artery supplying blood to the brain gets blocked or torn, depriving brain tissue of oxygen.
The Research Behind the Warning
Hall cites several peer‑reviewed studies to back up the claim that neck‑cracking can precipitate artery dissection. One key study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2017, followed over 500,000 patients and found a statistically significant association between sudden neck manipulation and cervical artery dissection. Another, from JAMA Neurology (2019), showed that people who frequently crunched their necks had a 2.5‑fold increased risk of dissection compared to those who never did.
The article also quotes Dr. Laura Cheng, a neurologist at Stanford University, who explains that the mechanical forces during a sudden twist or hyper‑extension can create a “shear stress” on the arterial wall. “It’s not the act itself that is dangerous; it’s the force and the speed with which the motion occurs,” Cheng tells Hall. “If you’re already prone to vascular fragility—say, due to hypertension or a connective‑tissue disorder—the risk jumps.”
Symptoms to Watch For
While the article emphasizes that most neck‑cracking sessions are harmless, it also highlights warning signs that warrant immediate medical evaluation. Hall lists the following symptoms, derived from both the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines and the American Academy of Neurology (AAN):
| Symptom | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Sudden severe headache (often “thunderclap”) | Possible arterial tear |
| Neck pain or stiffness that worsens with movement | Could indicate vascular injury |
| Visual disturbances (blurry vision, double vision) | Reduced blood flow to visual cortex |
| Dizziness or loss of balance | Posterior circulation involvement |
| Numbness or weakness in one side of the body | Stroke symptoms |
If anyone experiences a combination of these symptoms after a neck‑cracking episode, Hall stresses the importance of calling emergency services or visiting the nearest ER. “Time is brain,” Cheng reminds us—each minute of untreated ischemia can cost millions of brain cells.
Who Is at Greater Risk?
The article also distinguishes between the general population and those with specific risk factors. In addition to high blood pressure and a history of stroke, the following conditions increase vulnerability:
- Marfan syndrome, Ehlers‑Danlos syndrome – connective‑tissue disorders that weaken arterial walls.
- Recent cervical trauma – e.g., a fall or car accident.
- Recent infection or inflammation – which can predispose arteries to tearing.
Hall underscores that even people with no pre‑existing conditions should be cautious. The AHA recommends that everyone avoid sudden neck manipulation and seek professional evaluation before attempting any self‑therapy.
What Doctors Are Recommending
Rather than simply discouraging a habit, experts are proposing a more nuanced approach. Hall reports that:
Professional Guidance: Physical therapists and chiropractors are urged to use slow, controlled movements. “The key is to avoid rapid jerking motions,” Dr. Mark Patel, a sports medicine specialist, says. “If a patient needs neck mobility, we use graded stretching.”
Self‑Care Alternatives: Gentle neck stretches, warm compresses, and over‑the‑counter anti‑inflammatories can relieve tension without the risk of tearing an artery.
Regular Check‑ups: People who notice recurring neck pain should schedule an appointment with a primary care provider. Imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRA, can detect early arterial changes.
Education Campaigns: The article notes that the AHA has begun a public‑health campaign to raise awareness of cervical artery dissection. Flyers, social‑media infographics, and short videos featuring neurologists explain the “pop‑risk” of neck‑cracking.
The Bottom Line
Hall wraps up the article by emphasizing that while the occasional, slow twist is likely harmless, habitual, rapid neck‑cracking can create a small but real risk of cervical artery dissection and subsequent stroke. The message is clear: “Know your limits,” says Dr. Cheng. “If you’re uncertain whether a neck stretch or manipulation is safe, get a professional opinion.”
For readers who want more detail, the original article includes a link to a New England Journal of Medicine paper (cited above) and a resource page from the American Stroke Association outlining signs of ischemic stroke. Additionally, the article links to a reputable stroke support group, the National Stroke Association, where patients can connect with others who have experienced similar events.
Take‑Away Advice
- Stop rapid neck movements that produce a popping or cracking sound.
- Seek medical evaluation if you experience sudden, severe headache, neck pain, dizziness, or visual changes.
- Use gentle stretches and consult a licensed physical therapist or chiropractor for guidance.
- Stay informed by reviewing reputable sources such as the American Stroke Association and the American Heart Association.
In summary, the “neck‑cracking” habit, once considered benign, is now under scrutiny due to emerging evidence linking it to serious vascular complications. By understanding the risks and taking preventative steps, individuals can protect their brain health and avoid potentially life‑changing outcomes.
Read the Full TheHealthSite Article at:
[ https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/common-neck-cracking-habit-may-lead-to-dangerous-complications-like-stroke-expert-warns-1280920/ ]
