Expert warning on 'neck cracking'

Brain, nerve, and spinal cord surgery specialist Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen said, “Although neck cracking videos, which have become popular on social media in recent years, may seem like a fun and innocent procedure, they carry serious health risks. These uncontrolled procedures can endanger spinal health and lead to irreversible problems such as paralysis.”

Videos of neck and lower back cracking, which have become popular on social media in recent days, are attracting great interest. However, this procedure poses a major risk when not performed by experts.

Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen made statements regarding the subject. Şen stated, “Especially in barbershops, while you are getting a haircut and are completely relaxed, your neck is suddenly cracked. However, I always warn against doing it. Some patients may have underlying conditions. When that sudden movement we mentioned is not performed by expert physiotherapists in appropriate settings and at appropriate times, patients can end up paralyzed from the neck down,” he said.

“LET US PROCEED IN THE LIGHT OF SCIENCE”

Pointing out that major blood vessels pass through the neck, Şen emphasized that these vessels could be damaged during sudden movements, reducing blood flow to the brain, and added:

“Do not have your neck cracked while sitting in a barber's chair. It may not happen to many people, but if it happens to one person, you could be paralyzed from the neck down. Furthermore, in society, people suffering from back pain often lie down and have people weighing 70-80 kilograms walk on them. You may have osteoporosis, and when such weight is applied, fractures can develop in your spine. Let us proceed in the light of science and avoid such movements.”