«Hearing Crunches in Your Neck, Back, and Wrists is Not a Sign of Illness and Does Not Require Treatment,» Says Neurologist Anatoly Nimchuk
We’ve all experienced it at some point – a sudden crunch or pop in our neck, back, or wrists. It can be alarming and even a little uncomfortable, but is it something we should be concerned about? According to neurologist Anatoly Nimchuk, the answer is no.
In a recent interview, Dr. Nimchuk addressed the common misconception that hearing crunches in our joints is a sign of a serious health issue. He explained that these noises, known as crepitus, are actually quite common and usually harmless. «Crepitus is simply the sound of gas bubbles popping in the fluid that lubricates our joints,» he said. «It’s similar to the sound of cracking your knuckles.»
So why do we hear these crunches in our neck, back, and wrists? Dr. Nimchuk says it’s often due to wear and tear on our joints. As we age, the cartilage in our joints can become thinner and less cushioned, causing the bones to rub against each other and create those popping sounds. In some cases, crepitus can also be caused by air bubbles trapped in the joint fluid, or by tendons snapping over bony structures.
But despite how common it is, many people still worry that crepitus is a sign of a serious condition, such as arthritis or degenerative disc disease. Dr. Nimchuk reassures us that this is not the case. «Crepitus is not a disease or a symptom of a disease,» he said. «It’s simply a normal part of the aging process.»
In fact, Dr. Nimchuk believes that trying to «treat» crepitus can actually do more harm than good. He warns against seeking out chiropractic adjustments or other treatments for the sole purpose of getting rid of these noises. «Manipulating the joints can cause more inflammation and actually worsen the problem,» he explained.
So what should you do if you experience crepitus? Dr. Nimchuk recommends simply ignoring it. «Unless you are experiencing pain or other symptoms, there is no need to worry about crepitus,» he said. «It’s not something that needs to be fixed.»
Of course, if you are experiencing pain or other symptoms along with the crunching noises, it’s always a good idea to consult with a doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. But for the majority of people who experience crepitus without any other symptoms, Dr. Nimchuk’s advice is to simply carry on with your daily activities and not give it a second thought.
In conclusion, hearing crunches in your neck, back, and wrists is not a cause for concern. It’s a normal part of the aging process and does not require any treatment. So the next time you hear those noises, remember the wise words of Dr. Nimchuk and don’t let them worry you.
