My neck cracking while riding

Yesterday, I went for a two-hour ride and I experienced cracking in the neck. I've had that a few times in the past, only while riding a motorcycle. I suppose it can be due to the weight of the helmet pushing down on the vertebrae. It could be that I am too focused and not moving my head enough. Signs of osteoarthritis. This time the snap was quite significant. A bit scary. It so happened I had done a workout before the ride and my back and shoulder muscles must have been tired and weaker. I'm gonna schedule a call with my physician. My helmet is an ARAI. Not the lightest but very comfortable. Don't know whether a significantly lighter helmet would make a difference.

Anybody else experienced something similar and, if so, what have you done?

Thanks

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Originally Posted by jbim

Yesterday, I went for a two-hour ride and I experienced cracking in the neck. I've had that a few times in the past, only while riding a motorcycle. I suppose it can be due to the weight of the helmet pushing down on the vertebrae. It could be that I am too focused and not moving my head enough. Signs of osteoarthritis. This time the snap was quite significant. A bit scary. It so happened I had done a workout before the ride and my back and shoulder muscles must have been tired and weaker. I'm gonna schedule a call with my physician. My helmet is an ARAI. Not the lightest but very comfortable. Don't know whether a significantly lighter helmet would make a difference.

Anybody else experienced something similar and, if so, what have you done?

Thanks

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I'm not a Doctor .... but I doubt this issue is Spyder related ( as to cause ) other than you do wear a helmet, which for some is to heavy... If a doctor thinks it's the helmet, search for the lightest ( DOT certified - at a minimum ) one made today ... This may be expensive but your safety and comfort is worth it ..... good luck ..... Mike :thumbup:

It happens to me all the time. It just means you're getting older.

Take your helmet to your physician and explain the problem.

Thankfully no mention of pain, hopefully your physician will give you :thumbup: To continue riding. Might suggest some stretching or therapy type exercises for you rather than a neck brace :gaah:

I get the cracking in my neck all hours of the day no matter what I'm doing. I have been told by my doctor that it's normal wear and tear on the body. At 71 with a career in the military and a second one in law enforcement I'm amazed that it's not worse. For your own peace of mind check with your doctor. Everyone is different.

Find yourself a good Chiropractor and/or Massage Therapist who also understands motorcycle riding. You may have to go to several to find one who understands your problems. If you can find one who practices Spinal Touch therapy. They are few and far between but worth searching out.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by jbim

Yesterday, I went for a two-hour ride and I experienced cracking in the neck. I've had that a few times in the past, only while riding a motorcycle. I suppose it can be due to the weight of the helmet pushing down on the vertebrae. It could be that I am too focused and not moving my head enough. Signs of osteoarthritis. This time the snap was quite significant. A bit scary. It so happened I had done a workout before the ride and my back and shoulder muscles must have been tired and weaker. I'm gonna schedule a call with my physician. My helmet is an ARAI. Not the lightest but very comfortable. Don't know whether a significantly lighter helmet would make a difference.

Anybody else experienced something similar and, if so, what have you done?

Thanks

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Sounds like old age creeping up on you

Go to a mc shop that sells dirt bikes and get a neck collar so your helmet can rest on it, not your neck.

How is the position of your handlebars? If you’re reaching for them that could cause neck pain.

If your dr. tells you it's old age, find another dr. I agree with SpyderAnn01, especially if it only does it while riding. Just wondering if working out is something you do on a regular basis? Find yourself a good Physical Therapist, after seeing the dr. Most dr's will write a script for P.T., after x-rays in your case. Even if it is arthritis, P.T. will help.

Anytime a patient complained to me about their age when getting their P.T. treatment, I'd work them harder.

Neck and lower back both. Too many years of abuse and neglect have caught up with me. Arthritis and degenerative issues, but I have been able to keep on keeping on with exercises taught by a P.T.

Use to happen to me all the time on the Harley , I changed the bars and neck cracking stopped and the migraines went away . I'm not sayin thats the problem but it's something to look at .
ie:
are your shoulders hunched while ryding ?

:agree: