About Dr. Einspine:  Dr. Albeit Einspine is a renowned quantum chiropractor who specializes in the sub-atomic particulars of spinal bio-mechanics. Dr. Einspine will select several questions each month from our inquisitive readers. You may submit questions by...

QUESTION:  J.J. Jujubee of Jackson, Georgia asks... Dr. Einspine, sometimes when you adjust me, I hear a popping sound. Is that my vertebrae rubbing on each other?

ANSWER:   Jolly good and judicious question, Mr. Jujubee of Jackson.  Actually,  the sound is produced by the release of nitrogen gas. You see, Mr. Jujubee, a joint is surrounded by a cartilaginous capsule called a joint capsule, which contains synovial fluid. This fluid serves the purpose of lubricating the joint, to help keep it healthy. Nitrogen gas is contained in solution in the synovial fluid, within the joint capsule. When a chiropractic adjustment is performed, a sudden change in the pressure of the joint capsule causes a release of the nitrogen gas out of the synovial fluid.