Question
I just read a helpful post you answered on a popping/clicking noise when a 3 year old bends her head back. My 2 year old has a similar problem but when he turns in form side to side. I don't believe it causes pain, but is happens most of the time and seems worse in the morning. Sometimes I think I can feel something move in his shoulder blades when he does this. My doctor assures me that cracking noises are normal, but it happens too much for me. If there is no pain etc. am I just to assume it is ligaments growing????

Answer
Your Doctor is right cracking noises can be normal, however sometimes it isn't normal. A simple way to check for an Upper Cervical misalignment is to lay him flat on his back and gently straighten the legs wait till they calm down a bit and check to see if one leg is shorter than the other.

If there is a shorter leg then it is very likely that there is head and neck misalignment creating postural imbalances due most likely to birth trauma, or a fall from the changing table etc. (both can damage ligaments) this can create the clicking and popping you are describing.

If there is not a short leg and no history of trauma then it is most likely nothing to worry about.

My recommendation either way would be to take your toddler to an Upper Cervical Doctor and have him checked by a professional for postural imbalance and thermal asymmetry (autonomic imbalance). They can objectively tell you if it is normal or abnormal.

Try www.UpperCervicalCare.com to find an Upper Cervical Doctor that is in your area.