Researchers who published a 2015 study in PLOS One argue it’s the latter.
However, whether that “pop” sound is caused by the gas bubbles themselves or something else is hotly debated. DeStefano, D.O., chairwoman of the Department of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine at Michigan State University, tells SELF.
The existence of this gas isn’t up for debate-it actually shows up on X-rays and MRIs before surrounding tissues quickly reabsorb it after you crack your back, Lisa A. The thinking is that as these gases shift during an extreme stretch, they emit a cracking noise as they dissipate, Dr.
