When you crack your neck and back, it often feels good afterwards, especially if there was a great deal of tension or pain prior. The reason it feels good to crack your neck and back is because pressure is being relieved. Just as when any of your joints crack, gases are being released from within the synovial membranes. This release can cause a temporary relief of pressure or pain. In most cases though, the pressure or pain will return.

Many people can forcibly crack their joints, even their neck and back. In some cases, such as when performing stretching or yoga exercises, natural movement may also cracking. You might also visit a chiropractor who will crack your neck and back through a series of manipulations. While these manipulations can relieve pain and pressure in the back or neck, there are some studies that indicate cracking the neck may be linked to an increased risk of stroke.

If you forcibly crack your neck and back frequently, especially as a means to relieve pressure and pain, you might consider visiting a chiropractor or a physician. In some cases, chronic neck cracking can lead to loss of elasticity in the ligaments, which forces the muscles to work harder and tire easier. This happens when the joints are forced beyond normal range of motion and the ligaments stretch out over time. When they do not return to normal, this causes a condition known as hypermobility.

When you crack your neck and back, you should avoid forcibly stretching your joints beyond normal range of motion. Since there is some research that indicates cracking joints can lead to arthritis, it may be best to avoid forceful cracking. If you experience frequent neck and back pain, which may or may not be relieved when you crack your neck and back, you should visit a doctor. There could be underlying causes, including injury or a degenerative condition.