Curious: Neck Crackling
I have just had my first terrible flare, etc. and been diagnosed with RA. Am to start infusions come Thursday of Simponi aria but have a question. At the very beginning of the flare the back of my neck froze up for about a week before decreasing. Ever since I have had major cracking in my neck. I'm 68 and of course I had little sounds in that area, but not like what it's been ever since it froze and was wondering if anyone else had encountered it. I go back to Dr. tomorrow and will be asking her this question too.
Always best to ask your physician to see what he thinks, but for me, after thirty plus years of RA my joints snap, crackle, and pop more than a breakfast cereal commercial. So, for me, I have to say it's pretty normal but that doesn't go for everyone, obviously, as RA is a very individual illness that varies person to person. Let us know what they say but remember, you're not alone. Keep on keepin' on, DPM 
, hello and welcome to the RheumatoidArthritis.net community! I am glad you found us, though I wish you didn't have need of a community like this.
I am glad you will be talking to your doctor about your neck cracking, as she will probably have better insight than I would. I know you didn't ask, but I would definitely consider writing down ALL of your questions before your appointment tomorrow. It can be too easy to forget a question when you get in the office and I wouldn't want you to leave the office and realize, "Darn it! I forgot about that question I had!"
Does the cracking hurt or is it more like when you crack your knuckles? There are a number of things that may be causing the cracking and your doctor (or a specialist, if necessary) would be the best one to pinpoint what's going on.
I thought you might find this article on popping joints interesting -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/whats-noise-joint-sounds-ra. It may not be exactly what you are dealing with, but I thought it might be a helpful read.
I hope your doctor has some answers for you as well. And lastly, I hope Simponi Aria is a good fit for you, with minimal side effects!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team member.Thanks and I have written my questions down for Dr. As it was unfreezing, it was sore and still sore a little at times. More like cracking nuckles, but all started at same time. This site has been very useful! 
I'm so glad our site can be useful for you, especially as your waiting for your doctor appointment tomorrow. If you're comfortable, please let us know how it goes. We'll be crossing our fingers you get some answers and some relief. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)
I did have a Dr. appointment last Wednesday and first infusion on Thursday. Dr. did not think my neck situation had anything other than aging, but I did not have until the 1st flare up. As of today though, it has almost completely gone away. No real side effects from infusion thus far. Relatively easy. Dr. is going to reduce prednisone down through the next 7 weeks. No other symptoms since my first occurrence.
, thanks for the update! I am so glad your infusion went well ad that your neck issues have cleared up for the most part. That's a good update! I do hope you continue to see improvements and that tapering down the prednisone goes well, too. Although, don't be surprised if you notice an increase in your pain/inflammation and definitely let your doctor know when that occurs. I know you probably know this, but I'm a Mom and those 'momming' habits die hard!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.
