Yep, cracked on purpose. I assume it loosens the muscles, gets the joint moving properly again. Not really sure. All I know is that the physiotherapists I've been to do a lot of manipulation. The one I'm presently seeing does specialise in the spine and sports injuries. I think there's quite a bit of overlap between physiotherapists and chiropractors. They do some massage of the muscles as well, trigger points etc.

I think there is also a massage therapist at that physio practice, he seemed to be trying to set up a broad range of services (there's also pilates instruction there).

I'm probably going to have to go again on Tuesday. While the neck/shoulder problem is better, I've still got some stiffness and pain down my arm in certain positions. My shoulder is also clicking/cracking like hell.