Question
Recently, I have had surgery on my shoulder (SLAP Tear Type 2) and an AC Joint Resection.  Being out of the gym I have noticed something pretty bizarre.  My chest cracks. July 21st will be month 4 of recovery time for my shoulder.  If I am sitting down in a chair like the one I'm in now, I can crack my chest by leaning back and rolling my shoulders back.  For a while, it didn't seem like a big deal, but now, there's pain. Not holy god pain but pain where it's uncomfortable to even try to crack it. I have read online about rib subluxation.  Except it's not near the rib, its more in the middle of my chest.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Respectfully Submitted,

Christopher Dyer

Answer
Hi Christopher,

The sternocostal mechanics are intimately related to the shoulder girdle.  The crepitus itself is not overly significant.  Any joint face that is separated will cause a cavitation sound from suction.  It is only notable when the pain is present.

Probably the joints in question have been compensating all along and are now overworked and beginning to inflame.

It is difficult to say whether Chiropractic would help at this time.  With a hands on exam we can give you a better idea.

Just as a suggestion for temporary relief:  roll up a towel into a tube, put it on the floor and lay on it longways, right on your spine, starting at the base of the neck. Let gravity stretch you over it for 3-4 minutes.  If it is uncomfortable make the towel fatter or thinner so that it feels like a stretch, not a pain.

Anyway, a Chiropractic consult would be a good idea.  The site at the bottom will help find a local doc.