Question
During my last pregnancy I started to experience a clicking in my neck when I turn my head left and right. More when I turn it to the left. I had originally chalked it up to joint loosening, etc that happens during pregnancy. Now a friend has told me that it may be from a fall that I took at work. I fell from a standing position to my knees. I was sent to the hosp because I was 8 months pregnant. While at the hosp the pregnancy and related contractions were the only thing that was addressed. I had 2 bruised and swollen ankles and feet, etc..  So flash forward 1  years and I still have this clicking. I also have a constant tenseness in my neck and shoulders. And I'm beginning to be concerned about it. I'm 35 and worried that this may lead to arthritis and that it should have been addressed long ago. What do you think is causing this and what can I do about it?

Answer
The clicking sound you're referring to is called crepitus. It indicates some laxity in connective tissue, uneven surfaces on joints, or wear of the cartilage. It is, however, a normal phenomena so there's no need to be too concerned about it unless it causes you a lot of discomfort. Your pregnancy may have caused some of the loosening in your joints, but it's probably not related to your fall. The constant tension in your neck and shoulders is probably related to increased demands your placing on the neck and shoulders. I assume you are bending forward to pick your your baby, feeding, lifting heavy diaper bags, etc.

One of the best things to do that may address your concerns are postural correction exercises and stretches. Strengthening exercises if you have instability in your joints and stretching exercises if you excessively tight and tense upper trapezius, levator scapulae, etc.

Your best bet would to be see a qualified chiropractor or physical therapist for an evaluation if it continues to bother you.