When you crack your neck...?

Question

...what part of your neck is cracking? And why do you have an almost nirvana sensation after you cracked it?

Answer 1

First, "cracking" your neck or knuckles is not as harmful as the old wives' tale would have you believe--unless you go too far and stretch or tear a muscle or connective tissue. When a chiropractor "adjusts" your neck and spine, you'll hear cracking when the vertebrae go back in place--mine go off like a string of firecrackers. Oddly, I'm told that misaligned vertebrae allow small air pockets between them and the sound comes from the pockets bursting--harmless for a pro but we amateurs have to be careful. I don't do this anymore myself, since I'm now at risk of tearing a spinal muscle. The "nirvana" comes from relief of air pressure.

Answer 2

I used to crack my neck all the time, and the back and sides would crack. I wouldn't get a nirvana sensation though. It was a nervous habit for me back then.