It’s not that hard to “crack” someone’s back, in fact it merely requires some force and someone willing to have their spine treated poorly. That’s because sinovial joints will “pop” when they’re moved beyong what they are used to. That doesn’t make it a good idea.
Joints, whether in humans or any other animal, have a normal pattern of movement based on their design, their formation and shapes, and interaction with associated muscles and ligaments. As Chiropractors, it is our job to understand that well and honour that, so that we can adjust the spine back to it’s normal, original state. That is why we call it an “Adjustment”.
Unfortunately, a poorly trained “manipulation” or “crack”, while making a “popping” noise, does not reinforce or restore normal function, but instead creates pathological movement patterns that harm us, because they do not honour the normal anatomy and physiology of our body. That is why we don’t recommend having just anyone “pop” your spine, walk on your back, twist your head fast to crack it, lift you up off your feet and squeeze you, or tap on your back with a hammer. I shudder to imagine it 🤦♂️
As Chiropractors we train for many years and endure very rigourous schooling to earn the right to help a patient by evaluating their spine, and rightly so! The spine is a delicate masterpiece of engineering, and home to a big part of your central nervous system. Make sure yours is treated with respect!