From the Research
Neck crepitus is typically a harmless condition that can be managed with gentle neck stretches, good posture, and over-the-counter pain relievers if needed, but it's essential to seek medical attention if accompanied by severe symptoms or worsening over time. The condition is characterized by a crackling or popping sound when moving the neck, resulting from gas bubbles releasing in the joints or tendons and ligaments moving over bone 1. To manage mild neck crepitus, consider the following:
- Gentle neck stretches
- Maintaining good posture
- Taking breaks from prolonged sitting
- Applying heat for 15-20 minutes to relax muscles
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours) or ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) if needed for discomfort It's crucial to seek medical attention if crepitus follows injury, is accompanied by severe pain, persistent numbness or weakness, or if symptoms worsen over time, as these could indicate more serious conditions requiring professional evaluation 2, 1. A recent study published in 2023 found that clinical practice guideline interventions, such as thoracic manipulation, cervical mobilization, and scapular resistance exercises, are used with varying frequency by physical therapists when treating mechanical neck pain, but there was no significant improvement in pain, range of motion, or function based on the number of guideline-recommended treatments used 3. However, another study from 2023 emphasizes the importance of recognizing underlying vascular pathology or blood flow limitation in patients with neck pain, headache, and/or orofacial symptoms, and providing specific information and advice to patients to prevent serious adverse events 1. In terms of treatment, a study from 2005 found that combination therapy with cyclobenzaprine and ibuprofen was not superior to cyclobenzaprine alone in adult patients with acute neck and back pain with muscle spasm 4. Overall, while neck crepitus is often a benign condition, it's essential to prioritize morbidity, mortality, and quality of life when managing the condition, and to seek medical attention if severe symptoms or worsening occur over time.