In the Netherlands, the term “bone cracker” is commonly used, but what does it really mean? In this blog, we dive into the world of bone crackers and chiropractors. We’ll explore what a bone cracker does, how it differs from a chiropractor, what causes that distinctive “popping” sound, and whether it’s wise to crack your […]
In the Netherlands, the term “bone cracker” is commonly used, but what does it really mean? In this blog, we dive into the world of bone crackers and chiropractors. We’ll explore what a bone cracker does, how it differs from a chiropractor, what causes that distinctive “popping” sound, and whether it’s wise to crack your own joints.
A bone cracker is a term often used in the Netherlands for someone who manipulates a joint in the body, resulting in a characteristic “popping” sound, known as cavitation. This practice has ancient roots. Around 460–385 BCE, Hippocrates, considered one of the founders of medicine, used spinal manipulation techniques. He employed methods like hanging patients upside down on a ladder or using a traction device to pull on both ends of the body. Over the centuries, various practitioners—from surgeons to shamans—have incorporated joint manipulation into their practices.
The popping sound you hear during a manipulation has a scientific explanation. When force is applied to a joint, the two surfaces of the joint are pulled apart, creating a vacuum. This negative pressure causes gases within the joint to collapse, producing the popping sound. The process is similar to opening a bottle of champagne, where a pop is also heard.
Source: PLOS One
While the terms bone cracker and chiropractor are sometimes used interchangeably, there are significant differences.
Many therapists, including physiotherapists, massage therapists, and even shamans, use manipulation techniques in their work. The training for these practitioners can vary widely—from rigorous programs to short weekend courses or no formal education at all. In the Netherlands, there is no specific regulatory body overseeing bone crackers, meaning anyone can theoretically call themselves one.
Chiropractic is a recognized healthcare profession in most English-speaking developed countries, but not yet in the Netherlands or much of continental Europe. However, most chiropractors in Europe have completed formal training that meets international standards. It’s always wise to inquire about a chiropractor’s qualifications.
At Chiropractie Centraal, all our chiropractors have graduated from internationally recognized university programs, typically lasting five to nine years. These programs share similarities with other healthcare fields like medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, and dentistry, but with a specific focus on the spine, chiropractic techniques, and diagnostic imaging.
The core of chiropractic care is identifying a specific vertebra in the spine that isn’t functioning properly and applying a gentle impulse to restore normal function. This requires precision: determining which of the 24 vertebrae is the issue and in which direction it needs to move is a skill that takes years to master.
Bone crackers, on the other hand, often aim to manipulate larger sections of the spine at once, causing multiple joints to cavitate. While this can temporarily improve mobility, it often fails to address the most stuck vertebra—the root of the problem. As a result, more mobile joints may “crack” while the problematic joint remains untreated.
Many people discover that a certain movement in their neck or back produces a popping sound, which can provide temporary relief. This might reduce pain or muscle tension, which feels pleasant. But is it safe to crack your own joints?
Generally, it’s not recommended to crack your own joints. By repeatedly performing the same movement, you often only crack the joints that are already functioning well, leaving the stuck joints untreated. This provides temporary relief but can lead to a habit of cracking more frequently, sometimes multiple times a day. Over time, excessive cracking of healthy joints may cause issues.
In rare cases, people have injured themselves by cracking their own spine. For joints outside the spine, such as knees or fingers, the risks are less clear. Research suggests that knuckle-cracking doesn’t increase the risk of arthritis and may even have a protective effect.
If you find yourself frequently cracking your neck or back without long-term relief, we recommend consulting a chiropractor. A stuck vertebra left untreated—sometimes for years or decades—becomes harder to correct over time. A chiropractor can identify the root cause of your discomfort and provide targeted treatment.
While bone crackers and chiropractors may seem similar at first glance, their training and approach differ significantly. Bone crackers often use a general manipulation technique, while chiropractors focus on precision to address specific spinal issues. Cracking your own joints might offer temporary relief, but for lasting solutions, a professional approach is often more effective. If you’re experiencing joint issues or want to learn more, consider scheduling a consultation with a qualified chiropractor to address the root of your concerns.
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