What makes joints click? New research explains the noise when joints click.
The cause of joint cracking has been previously attributed to gas bubble presence and collapse within the joints (http://www.ncor.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Audible_sounds_sm.pdf). In a new study at the University of Alberta real-time magnetic resonance imaging demonstrates that the mechanism of joint cracking is related to cavity formation rather than bubble collapse.
The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine have published further details on the experiment, including photographs showing the MRI set-up.
Further information about the study can be found at Kawchuk GN, Fryer J, Jaremko JL, et al. Real-time visualisation of joint cavitation. PLoS One. 2015;10(4):e0119470. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25875374 .
Osteopaths may use a very specific form of joint manipulation called an HVT (high velocity thrust) where you may hear a click or a pop. They are trained for 4 or 5 years in the art of using this technique and create the movement by building up a series of levers to make the impact at the joint as minimal as possible. An osteopath should always ask for your consent when using this technique and explain the benefits and risks involved. It is one of many techqniques that osteopaths use to improve joint movement and release muscle tension.
To an osteopath, for your body to work well, its structure must also work well. So osteopaths work to restore your body to a state of balance, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery. Osteopaths use touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms. They may also provide advice on posture and exercise to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring.
Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.
Laura Tilson Osteopathy offer osteopathy, sports massage, acupuncture and cranial osteopathy from their clinic on Northcote Road. To book an appointment visit www.ltosteo.co.uk or call 020 7206 2625.
All osteopaths in the UK are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). It is against the law for anyone to call themselves an osteopath unless they are registered with the GOsC, which sets and promotes high standards of competency, conduct and safety. Use the register at www.osteopathy.org.uk for more details.