Cracking in the neck generally is not really related to the causes of neck pain. Cracking sounds are generated by facets which are generally under suction. When the joint separates in many cases, the suction “pops” causing the cracking noise. Also, a tendon that rubs over a bone surface can also “pop”.
Neck pain is generally caused by the disc and facet. See https://neckandback.com/conditions/cervical-degenerative-disc-disease/ and https://neckandback.com/conditions/cervical-degenerative-facet-disease/.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.