During a chiropractic adjustment, have you ever wondered what causes the popping sound? This signature noise occurs due to a process called joint cavitation. When a quick, gentle force is applied to the spine by a chiropractor, the joints separate slightly. When this slight separation happens, a bubble of gas is released from the fluid in between the joints. With the release of these gases, comes an improvement in joint range of motion. Although this popping may sound alarming, especially for first time chiropractic patients, it is completely normal and healthy.