Neck cracking is a common habit for many seeking relief from stiffness, whether self-administered or performed by a chiropractor. However, a US-based neurologist, Dr. Baibing Chen (known online as Dr. Bing), has issued a firm warning about the potential dangers of this practice.
In a recent TikTok video, Dr. Chen revealed that he personally avoids cracking his neck and does not allow others to manipulate it either. He explained, “One thing I don’t do as a neurologist is I don’t crack my own neck and I don’t let anyone else manipulate it.” He acknowledged that individual risk tolerance varies but emphasized that for him, “the risk is not worth it.”
The primary risk Dr. Chen highlights is vertebral artery dissection, a serious condition that can result from abrupt twisting or popping of the neck. This tear within the artery wall can disrupt blood flow or send clots to the brain, potentially causing a stroke. “When you sharply twist or pop your neck, you’re putting real stress on arteries that carry blood to your brain,” he warned. “I have unfortunately seen cases of vertebral artery dissection caused by neck manipulation.”
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While not everyone who cracks their neck will experience complications, certain individuals face higher risk. Dr. Chen pointed out risk factors such as high blood pressure, connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, smoking, or recent neck trauma from accidents. In these cases, the consequences can be severe. A stroke in the brain’s posterior circulation can lead to loss of balance, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and in worst cases, locked-in syndrome—a condition where a person is fully conscious but completely paralyzed except for eye movement.
Echoing this caution, Dr. Ever Arias shared a real-life example on TikTok involving a young patient who suffered a cervical compression fracture and vertebral artery dissection after trying to crack her neck. This injury led to a stroke and highlighted the dangers of forceful chiropractic neck manipulations.
Dr. Chen concluded by stressing that while neck cracking isn’t universally dangerous, it’s a risk he personally won’t take, especially when it concerns brain health. His advice is simple: weigh the potential consequences and proceed with caution — your brain may depend on it.