Is The Ring Dinger® Safe for Neck and Back Pain?

You know that moment when you’re scrolling through social media and suddenly stop dead in your tracks? That’s exactly what happened to me last week when a video popped up on my feed – some chiropractor performing something called “The Ring Dinger” on a patient. The sound was… well, let’s just say it made me wince and fascinate me at the same time.

The patient’s spine made this incredible *crack-pop-crack* symphony that honestly sounded like someone was bubble-wrapping their entire back. And here’s the kicker – the person looked absolutely blissful afterward, like they’d just experienced some kind of spinal nirvana.

But then my brain kicked in (you know how it does). If you’re dealing with chronic neck pain or that nagging lower back ache that’s been your unwelcome companion for months… or maybe years… you’ve probably watched that same video with a mix of hope and terror. Because part of you is thinking, “Oh my God, what if that could fix me?” while another part is screaming, “That looks like it could paralyze someone!”

And honestly? Both reactions make perfect sense.

Here’s the thing about living with chronic pain – and I see this every single day in our clinic – you reach this point where you’d try just about anything for relief. You’ve done the heating pads, the stretches, the over-the-counter meds that barely take the edge off. Maybe you’ve tried traditional chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage therapy… the works. But that pain? It’s still there, grinding away at your quality of life like some persistent house guest who just won’t leave.

So when you see something as dramatic as The Ring Dinger – this technique where chiropractors literally lift patients by their head and drop them to create spinal decompression – part of your brain lights up with possibility. What if this is the thing? What if this is finally the answer?

But then the rational side kicks in (thank goodness for that rational side, right?). Because let’s be real – anything that involves suspending someone by their neck and creating those kinds of sounds… well, it’s natural to wonder if we’re talking about legitimate therapy or something that belongs in a medieval torture chamber.

The truth is, you’re not wrong to be both intrigued and cautious. The Ring Dinger has become this viral phenomenon partly because it looks so dramatic, so satisfying, so… final. Like it’s going to crack your pain right out of your body in one fell swoop. But as someone who’s spent years helping people navigate their pain management options, I can tell you that the reality is always more nuanced than the thirty-second social media clip.

And that’s exactly why we need to talk about this – really talk about it. Not the sensationalized version you see online, but the actual science, the real risks, the legitimate benefits (if any), and most importantly, whether this technique has any place in a comprehensive approach to managing your neck and back pain.

Because here’s what I’ve learned after working with hundreds of people dealing with chronic pain: the flashiest solution isn’t always the best solution. Sometimes it is… but sometimes it’s just flashy. And when we’re talking about your spine – literally the structural foundation of your entire body – we can’t afford to make decisions based on viral videos and testimonials alone.

So let’s dig into what The Ring Dinger actually is, how it’s supposed to work, and what the research tells us about spinal decompression techniques. We’ll look at who might be a candidate for this kind of treatment (spoiler alert: it’s not everyone), what red flags to watch for, and perhaps most importantly, how to evaluate whether any dramatic-looking treatment is worth the potential risks.

We’ll also explore some alternatives that might give you the relief you’re seeking without the… well, without the whole “dangling by your head” situation. Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t to find the most impressive-looking treatment – it’s to find what actually works for your specific situation, safely and effectively.

Ready to separate the hype from the reality? Let’s talk about what you really need to know about The Ring Dinger.

What Exactly Is This Ring Dinger Thing Anyway?

Okay, so you’ve probably stumbled across those oddly satisfying (and slightly terrifying) videos on social media. You know the ones – where someone lies on a table and gets… well, let’s call it aggressively stretched. That dramatic *pop* sound that makes half the viewers cringe and the other half immediately book an appointment.

The Ring Dinger® – yes, it’s actually trademarked – is a spinal decompression technique that’s become the signature move of Dr. Gregory Johnson in Houston. Think of it like this: if your spine were a accordion that’s been squished down all day, the Ring Dinger is supposed to be the dramatic pull that opens it back up.

But here’s where it gets interesting (and honestly, a bit confusing). This isn’t your typical chiropractic adjustment where someone gently manipulates one joint at a time. We’re talking about a full-spine stretch that can create multiple pops simultaneously. It’s like the difference between popping bubble wrap one bubble at a time versus stepping on the whole sheet.

The Science Behind Spinal Decompression

Your spine isn’t just a stack of bones – though I’ll admit, that mental image makes things easier to understand. Between each vertebra, you’ve got these gel-filled cushions called discs. Picture them like jelly donuts that have been sitting in your backpack all day… they get a bit squished, right?

Throughout the day, gravity, poor posture, and life in general compress these discs. The theory behind decompression is that by creating negative pressure – basically pulling things apart – you can help those discs plump back up and potentially draw herniated material back where it belongs.

Here’s what happens during decompression (whether it’s the Ring Dinger or a fancy decompression machine): the stretching creates a vacuum effect inside the disc. This negative pressure can theoretically pull water, oxygen, and nutrients back into the disc while potentially reducing pressure on nearby nerves.

Why All the Controversy?

Now, this is where things get… well, complicated. The chiropractic community is pretty divided on techniques like the Ring Dinger. Some practitioners love the dramatic results they see. Others? They’re concerned about the force involved and the lack of specific targeting.

Think about it this way – traditional chiropractic is like using a scalpel, making precise adjustments to specific joints. The Ring Dinger is more like using a sledgehammer… which can be effective, but also carries different risks.

The technique involves significant force applied to the entire spine simultaneously. That’s a lot of joints moving at once, and not all of them might need – or want – to move. It’s kind of like trying to fix a squeaky door hinge by shaking the entire house.

The Viral Effect vs. Real Treatment

Let’s be honest – part of the Ring Dinger’s popularity comes from its dramatic visual appeal. Those satisfying pops, the immediate “wow” factor, the before-and-after reactions… it’s basically made for social media. But here’s the thing that’s worth considering: the most effective treatments aren’t always the most dramatic ones.

You know how sometimes the best medicine tastes terrible, but sometimes it doesn’t? Same principle here. Just because something creates an impressive pop doesn’t automatically mean it’s more therapeutic than gentler approaches. Though – and I’ll admit this is counterintuitive – some people genuinely do feel better after more aggressive treatments.

Individual Anatomy Matters More Than You Think

Here’s something that often gets overlooked in all the viral videos: every spine is different. What works beautifully for the flexible 25-year-old in the video might be completely inappropriate for someone with arthritis, osteoporosis, or previous spinal surgery.

Your spine has been with you through everything – every sports injury, every night sleeping on terrible hotel pillows, every hour hunched over a computer. It’s developed its own quirks and limitations. A one-size-fits-all approach… well, let’s just say it raises some eyebrows in the medical community.

The bottom line? Understanding what you’re getting into matters. Whether you’re considering the Ring Dinger or any other treatment, knowing the fundamentals helps you make better decisions about your own body.

What to Ask Your Chiropractor Before Getting a Ring Dinger®

Look, I get it – you’ve seen those satisfying YouTube videos and you’re curious. But before you book that appointment, you need to become your own advocate. Here’s what I always tell my patients: treat this like you’re interviewing a potential babysitter for your spine.

Start with the basics. “How many Ring Dinger® procedures have you performed?” If they can’t give you a solid number or seem evasive… that’s a red flag. You want someone who’s done hundreds, not someone who watched a weekend seminar and decided to give it a go. Also ask about their specific training in this technique – and I mean specific, not just general chiropractic education.

Then get personal with your medical history. “Given my herniated disc at L4-L5, is this appropriate for me?” Don’t let them brush off your concerns with vague reassurances. A good practitioner will want to see recent imaging, discuss your pain patterns, and honestly assess whether you’re a candidate.

Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away

Trust your gut on this one. If a chiropractor guarantees dramatic results or promises to “fix” you in one session – run. The Ring Dinger® isn’t magic, despite what social media might suggest.

Watch out for practitioners who don’t want to discuss risks or seem annoyed when you ask questions. Your spine isn’t a place for ego trips. Also be wary of anyone pushing you to sign up for a package deal on the spot. Legitimate practitioners understand you need time to think, especially for a procedure this aggressive.

Here’s something that might surprise you: if they don’t ask about your anxiety levels or explain exactly what will happen, that’s concerning. The Ring Dinger® can be pretty intense – both the setup and the actual manipulation. A caring practitioner will walk you through everything and check in about your comfort level.

Preparing Your Body (and Mind) for the Procedure

Assuming you’ve found a qualified practitioner and you’re moving forward, preparation matters more than you might think. Your muscles need to be as relaxed as possible – think of it like preparing for a massage, not a workout.

Schedule your appointment for when you’re least stressed. Seriously. If you’ve got a big presentation at work afterward or you’re running on three hours of sleep, reschedule. Your body needs to be in a receptive state, not locked up with tension.

The night before, take a warm bath (add some Epsom salts if you’ve got them) and do some gentle stretching. Nothing fancy – just basic neck rolls and shoulder shrugs. Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise for 24 hours beforehand. Think of your spine as being prepped for surgery… because in a way, it is.

Post-Procedure Care That Actually Works

Here’s where most people mess up – they think they’re “fixed” and immediately go back to their regular activities. Wrong move. Your spine just went through something pretty significant, even if you feel amazing afterward.

Ice is your friend for the first 24-48 hours. I know, I know – it feels counterintuitive when you want to celebrate your newfound mobility. But think of it as insurance against inflammation. Twenty minutes on, forty minutes off. Set a timer because time flies when you’re binge-watching Netflix.

Avoid sleeping on your stomach for at least a week. I don’t care how comfortable it usually is – your neck doesn’t need any extra twisting right now. Side sleeping with a pillow between your knees is your safest bet.

And here’s something most practitioners don’t emphasize enough: gentle movement is crucial. Not bed rest, not aggressive exercise – but gentle, consistent movement. Think leisurely walks, not power yoga. Your spine needs to integrate this new positioning gradually.

When to Seek Follow-up Care

Pay attention to your body in the days following the procedure. Some soreness? Normal. Increased pain, numbness, or tingling that wasn’t there before? That’s a call to your practitioner.

Don’t play hero if something feels off. I’ve seen too many people convince themselves that worsening symptoms are just “part of the process.” Trust me – your body knows the difference between healing discomfort and warning signals.

Keep a simple log for the first week. Just note your pain levels morning and evening, any new symptoms, and what activities you did. This isn’t homework – it’s data that could be invaluable if you need to make adjustments to your recovery plan.

When the Confidence Just Isn’t There

Let’s be real – watching someone get their neck twisted and hearing those dramatic pops on YouTube can make your stomach flip. You’re sitting there thinking, “That looks terrifying, but my neck pain is driving me crazy.” This internal wrestling match? Totally normal.

The solution isn’t to just “trust the process” (ugh, hate that phrase). Instead, ask specific questions during your consultation. “What happens if you can’t get the adjustment?” “How do you know when to stop?” “What’s your backup plan if I’m too tense?” A good chiropractor won’t just brush off your concerns – they’ll walk you through their decision-making process step by step.

Actually, here’s something most people don’t think about… if a practitioner gets defensive about your questions or rushes through explanations, that’s valuable information. You want someone who’s done this thousands of times and can explain it like they’re talking to their nervous aunt.

Finding Someone Who Actually Knows What They’re Doing

This is where things get tricky. The Ring Dinger® isn’t taught in standard chiropractic school, and not every chiropractor who attempts it has proper training. It’s like… you wouldn’t want someone doing brain surgery just because they watched a really good medical drama, right?

The challenge is that credentials can be confusing. Someone might be a licensed chiropractor but still be inexperienced with this specific technique. What you’re looking for is someone who’s either trained directly with Dr. Johnson (the creator) or has extensive experience with similar high-velocity adjustments.

Here’s a practical approach: ask how many Ring Dinger procedures they’ve performed and what their complication rate is. If they can’t give you specific numbers or seem evasive, keep looking. Also – and this might sound obvious but you’d be surprised – check their online reviews specifically for this procedure, not just general chiropractic care.

The Insurance Headache (Because Of Course)

Most insurance plans treat the Ring Dinger® like it’s some exotic spa treatment rather than a medical procedure. You might be looking at $150-400 per session, depending on your location, and good luck getting that reimbursed.

This creates a real dilemma when you’re already spending money on other treatments that aren’t working. The temptation is to either skip it entirely or find the cheapest option available. Neither is great.

Consider this strategy: if you’ve been doing physical therapy, pain medications, or other treatments that insurance *does* cover but aren’t helping, calculate what you’ve already spent in copays and deductibles. Sometimes paying out of pocket for something that might actually work ends up being more cost-effective than continuing ineffective covered treatments.

Some practitioners offer payment plans or package deals if you’re considering multiple sessions. Don’t be shy about asking – worst case, they say no.

Managing Expectations (The Hardest Part)

Here’s where people trip up most often: expecting instant, permanent relief. Social media doesn’t help – those dramatic “before and after” videos make it look like magic. But bodies are complicated, and chronic pain usually didn’t develop overnight.

The Ring Dinger® might give you immediate relief that lasts weeks… or it might provide temporary improvement that needs follow-up sessions. Some people feel worse for a day or two before feeling better. Others notice gradual improvement over several days rather than instant results.

The key is having honest conversations about realistic timelines. If someone promises you’ll be “completely healed” after one session, that’s a red flag. Pain that’s been bothering you for months or years typically doesn’t disappear permanently after a single treatment – no matter how dramatic it looks on video.

When Your Body Says “Nope”

Sometimes your body just won’t cooperate during the procedure. You’re too tense, your muscles won’t relax, or you have anatomical factors that make the adjustment impossible. This isn’t a personal failure or a sign of weakness – it’s just biomechanics.

A skilled practitioner should recognize this quickly and either modify their approach or stop the procedure. You shouldn’t feel pressured to push through excessive discomfort or fear. Trust your instincts here – if something feels genuinely wrong (beyond normal nervousness), speak up immediately.

The solution is finding someone who’s comfortable adapting their technique or honestly telling you when the Ring Dinger® isn’t appropriate for your specific situation. Sometimes the best treatment is knowing when not to proceed.

What Should You Actually Expect?

Look, I’m going to be straight with you here – the Ring Dinger® isn’t a magic bullet. I know that’s probably not what you want to hear when you’re desperately seeking relief from chronic pain, but setting realistic expectations is crucial for your success.

Most people don’t walk out of their first session feeling like a completely new person. Sure, some folks do experience immediate relief – that satisfying “ahh” moment when tension releases. But for many others? The changes are more subtle at first. You might notice you can turn your head a bit easier, or that nagging morning stiffness isn’t quite as intense.

The typical timeline looks something like this: initial sessions might provide temporary relief that lasts a few hours to a couple of days. That’s completely normal, by the way. Your body is essentially learning a new pattern, and like any learning process… it takes time. Think of it like starting a new workout routine – you don’t expect to be ripped after one gym session, right?

Most practitioners suggest you’ll start noticing more lasting changes around the 4-6 session mark. But here’s the thing – everyone’s different. Your timeline depends on how long you’ve had the problem, your overall health, stress levels, sleep quality, and yes, even your job (sorry, desk warriors).

Reading Your Body’s Signals

After a Ring Dinger® session, you might experience what practitioners call “retracing” – basically, your body working through the adjustment. This can feel like mild soreness, similar to what you’d experience after a good massage or workout. Some people describe feeling slightly “off” for a day or two as their spine settles into its new alignment.

That’s normal. What’s not normal? Severe pain, numbness, tingling that gets worse instead of better, or any symptoms that interfere with your daily activities. If you experience any of these red flags, contact your practitioner immediately – don’t wait it out hoping it’ll improve on its own.

You might also notice some interesting side effects that seem unrelated to your back or neck. Better sleep, improved digestion, less anxiety… These aren’t flukes. Your nervous system is incredibly interconnected, and when spinal pressure decreases, the ripple effects can be surprising.

Your Action Plan Moving Forward

First things first – find a qualified practitioner. And I mean really qualified, not just someone who watched a YouTube video and decided to give it a try. Look for chiropractors who’ve been specifically trained in the Ring Dinger® technique. Don’t be shy about asking about their training, experience, and success rates.

During your consultation (and there should definitely be a consultation), be completely honest about your pain history, previous treatments, and current medications. This isn’t the time to downplay symptoms or forget to mention that herniated disc from five years ago. Your practitioner needs the full picture to determine if you’re a good candidate.

If you decide to move forward, commit to the process – but not blindly. A reputable practitioner will outline a treatment plan with specific goals and timelines. They should also be monitoring your progress closely and adjusting the approach if needed. If someone wants you to prepay for 20 sessions upfront with vague promises… that’s a red flag the size of Texas.

The Maintenance Reality

Here’s something most people don’t think about initially – maintenance. Even if the Ring Dinger® works wonderfully for you, it’s rarely a one-and-done solution. Think about it… if poor posture, stress, or lifestyle factors contributed to your original problem, those things don’t magically disappear after treatment.

Many people find they need periodic “tune-ups” – maybe monthly or quarterly sessions to maintain their progress. Others incorporate complementary approaches like physical therapy, ergonomic improvements, or stress management techniques. Actually, that reminds me – the most successful patients I’ve seen are usually the ones who take a holistic approach rather than relying solely on any single treatment method.

Making the Decision That’s Right for You

Ultimately, only you can decide if the Ring Dinger® is worth trying. Consider your current quality of life, the treatments you’ve already attempted, and your personal risk tolerance. For some people dealing with chronic pain, the potential benefits outweigh the risks. For others, more conservative approaches make better sense.

Whatever you choose, don’t let desperation drive your decision. Take time to research, ask questions, and trust your instincts. Your spine – and your overall wellbeing – deserves that level of care and consideration.

Making the Right Choice for Your Body

Here’s what it really comes down to – your pain is real, and you deserve relief that actually works. The Ring Dinger® might look impressive on social media (those satisfying pops!), but when you’re dealing with neck and back pain that’s affecting your daily life, you need more than viral videos. You need genuine, lasting solutions.

Think of it this way: if your car was making strange noises, you wouldn’t take it to someone who promised to fix everything with one dramatic adjustment, right? You’d want a thorough diagnosis first. Your spine deserves the same careful attention.

The truth is, most neck and back pain isn’t caused by joints that just need a good crack. Often – more often than we’d like to admit – it’s connected to inflammation, muscle tension, poor posture, or even excess weight putting extra pressure on your spine. That constant ache you feel after sitting at your desk all day? The way your lower back screams when you bend over to pick up laundry? These aren’t problems that one adjustment can solve.

And here’s something interesting we’ve noticed in our practice… many of our patients who’ve struggled with chronic back pain find significant relief when they start addressing their overall health. Losing even 10-15 pounds can take tremendous pressure off your spine. Better nutrition reduces inflammation throughout your body. Regular movement – even gentle movement – keeps those joints happy and mobile.

I’m not saying chiropractic care doesn’t have its place. A skilled, licensed chiropractor who takes time to understand your specific situation? Absolutely valuable. But the flashy, one-size-fits-all approach? That’s where things get risky.

Your body is incredibly smart – it’s been sending you signals about what it needs. Maybe it’s telling you to move more, stress less, or shed some weight that’s been putting extra strain on your back. Sometimes the most dramatic transformations come from addressing these root causes rather than chasing quick fixes.

If you’re reading this because you’re tired of living with pain, I get it. You’ve probably tried everything – heating pads, over-the-counter meds, maybe even some questionable YouTube stretches. The frustration of waking up stiff every morning, of having to think twice before lifting your grandkids, of missing out on activities you love… it wears on you.

But here’s what I want you to know: you don’t have to figure this out alone. Whether your pain stems from weight-related pressure on your joints, inflammation from poor nutrition, or just the accumulated stress of daily life, there are proven approaches that can help. Real, sustainable approaches that address the why behind your pain, not just the symptoms.

You deserve to feel strong and comfortable in your own body. If you’re ready to explore what that might look like – whether it involves medical weight loss, nutrition counseling, or connecting you with trusted specialists – we’re here. No pressure, no sales pitch. Just real people who understand that chronic pain affects every aspect of your life, and who want to help you find your way back to feeling like yourself again.

Ready to have that conversation? We’d love to hear from you.