Neck Pull Risks & Ring Dinger Dangers
Forceful neck pulls, manual neck jerks, or traction techniques like the Ring Dinger®, Y-Strap pulls, and wrap-around towel yanks have gained viral attention online — but their risks are often underestimated.
These techniques involve fast, forceful pulls on the neck that can put strains on sensitive areas like nerves, discs, blood vessels, and even the brainstem. For people with disc problems, early arthritis (spondylosis or bone spurs), or unrecognized spine issues, such aggressive pulls may lead to serious side effects, including dizziness, headaches, or in rare cases, stroke-like symptoms. In this article, we break down how these methods work, why they can be risky, and what safer alternatives are available for those seeking lasting neck care.
A safer, clinically sound alternative for those seeking neck care is focused, non-forceful spinal care that avoids twisting and yanking.
At Chiropractic Specialty Center®, we emphasize non-rotatory methods, especially for individuals with disc degeneration, arthritis, or known vascular risks. When clinically indicated in younger, non-spondylotic individuals, minimal, low-amplitude cervical mobilizations may be considered — always preceded by thorough assessments. Instead of aggressive pulls, our approach relies on gentle mobilizations, soft tissue work, spinal decompression, and corrective exercise, making it a safer option for those prioritizing spine health, stability, and long-term function.
Neck Pulls: 5 Critical Facts You Should Know First
- Aggressive Neck Pulls can affect your brain, spinal cord, and blood vessels
- Techniques like Ring Dinger® or Y-Strap may place sudden stress on sensitive tissues you can’t feel or see.
- Forceful traction isn’t safe for everyone
- People with disc problems, arthritis, or even mild wear-and-tear in the neck may be more vulnerable to injury during aggressive neck moves.
- Bone spurs in your neck may already be narrowing blood flow.
- Many adults have spondylosis (spinal degeneration) near the vertebral artery, making sudden pulls especially risky.
- Real neck care doesn’t require yanking or twisting
- Safe methods involve gentle joint movement, soft tissue work, and proper assessment—not violent pulling
- Always ask: “Is this safe for my spine?”
- Before agreeing to any technique, be sure your provider has done a thorough assessment and explained your spine’s condition clearly.
Introduction: Before You Say Yes to a Neck Pull
The internet is filled with videos of neck pulls—some with machines, some with towels—delivering dramatic cracks and quick relief. One technique known as the Ring Dinger® uses mechanical anchors and a sudden manual pull on the neck. Others involve towel yanks or Y-Strap traction.
While they may look impressive, these methods come with serious anatomical risks—especially when used on individuals with undiagnosed spinal degeneration or vascular issues. This article explains what makes these pulls dangerous and what may happen inside the neck and brainstem during such forceful traction.
Cervical Spine Anatomy: A Delicate Balance
The human neck, or cervical spine, is made up of seven vertebrae (C1-C7) connected by joints, discs, and ligaments. Surrounding these structures are critical blood vessels, spinal nerves, and the spinal cord.
One set of small but crucial joints in the neck is the uncovertebral joints, also known as the joints of von Luschka. These joints develop in childhood and act as natural guardrails, keeping the vertebrae aligned and preventing excessive movement to the sides.
Next to these joints lies a pair of arteries—the vertebral arteries—which pass through the small bony openings (foramina transversaria) of the cervical vertebrae. These arteries supply blood to the brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior parts of the brain.
What is Spondylosis in the Neck?
Spondylosis is a common term for age-related changes or wear-and-tear in the spine. In the neck, it refers to degeneration of the cervical discs, joints, and ligaments. Over time, this can cause stiffness, reduced mobility, and the growth of bony outgrowths called osteophytes or “bone spurs.”
Many people with spondylosis may not feel symptoms at first, but in some cases, it can affect nerve function or blood flow—especially during forceful movements or extreme neck positions.
How Spondylosis Near the Uncinate Process Affect the Vertebral Artery?
The uncinate processes are small, curved structures on each side of the vertebrae in your neck. They help form joints called the uncovertebral joints (joints of von Luschka), which act like guardrails for your spine.
As we age, these joints may develop bone spurs that grow close to the vertebral arteries—important blood vessels that travel through the neck and supply the brain. In someone with spondylosis in this area, a sudden neck pull—like a Y-Strap or Ring Dinger®—could irritate or stretch the artery, increasing the risk of damage. That’s why people with even mild wear-and-tear in the neck should avoid aggressive neck traction techniques.
Bone Spurs and Vertebral Artery Risks
Over time, due to posture, degeneration, or trauma, the uncovertebral joints may develop bone spurs (osteophytes). These spurs can narrow the nearby artery space or press on the vertebral artery, especially during rotation or extension of the neck.
When a sudden axial traction force—like a Ring Dinger® or towel yank—is applied, the vertebral artery may:
- Become compressed or stretched
- Tear its inner lining (intimal tear)
- Lead to vertebral artery dissection (VAD), which can result in a stroke or brainstem infarction.
Sudden Neck Pulls: What Actually Happens
Techniques like the Ring Dinger®, Y-Strap, and towel pull uses:
- A sudden, high-velocity distraction force
- Often while the neck is in extension or mild rotation
- Sometimes with the patient’s lower body anchored (manually or mechanically)
This combination of movement can:
- Increase tension on cervical discs
- Stress the facet joints and joint capsules
- Irritate or even stretch the brainstem or spinal cord through the dural attachments
Why the Brainstem Is at Risk
The brainstem exits the skull and becomes the spinal cord at the foramen magnum. Both are enclosed in a continuous sheath called the dura mater—a tough membrane that connects from the brain all the way to the tailbone.
Aggressive traction may cause:
- A jolting movement of the dura and brainstem
- Shear stress at the craniovertebral junction
- Symptoms like dizziness, visual changes, migraines, or nausea
These mechanisms resemble those described in what is sometimes referred to as “Salon Stroke Syndrome,” where neck extension during hair washing leads to vertebral artery stress.
Why These Techniques Should Be Avoided
Aggressive neck pulls are dangerous, regardless of the technique or system used, especially in individuals with:
- Arthritis or spondylosis
- Disc bulges or herniations
- Vascular fragility (e.g., hypertension, clotting disorders)
- Unstable posture or previous whiplash injuries
…the risk of complications rises dramatically.
As these aggressive pulls have no clear clinical indicators, their use becomes more about theatrics than evidence-based care.
“It’s comparable to yanking a plugged-in cable while the device is still operating — eventually, something may short or malfunction.”
What Safe Neck Care Looks Like
True spinal care doesn’t rely on force. Effective, modern neck care uses:
- Gentle mobilizations of neck joints
- Soft-tissue work
- Segmental traction or spinal decompression (non-sudden)
- Corrective exercises
- And above all, assessment-based precision
Watch the Full Video Explanation
In this 14-minute video, Y. Zafer explains the exact risks to your spinal discs, vertebral artery, and brainstem with visual models and real-world examples.
Final Thoughts: Education Prevents Injury
It’s easy to be impressed by online videos of loud spinal cracks and dramatic neck pulls. But what you don’t see is what could go wrong—sometimes with no warning.
Before saying yes to any high-force technique, especially those like the Ring Dinger® or towel yanks, get informed, get assessed, and always ask:
“Is this safe for my neck, given my spine and history?”
Non-Force Neck Care in Kuala Lumpur
At Chiropractic Specialty Center®, we use non-rotatory, safe methods tailored to your spine’s needs — combining clinical physiotherapy, gentle chiropractic, and targeted rehabilitation.
Educational Note
The following information is presented to increase awareness and understanding of potential risks associated with high-force neck traction. It does not replace clinical assessment or personalized medical advice.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or substitute advice from a qualified healthcare provider. The term “Ring Dinger®” is a registered trademark of Gregory Johnson and is referenced here solely for discussion and commentary. Chiropractic Specialty Center® and Y. Zafer are not affiliated with, nor endorsed by, Dr. Gregory Johnson, Hill Laboratories, or any parties associated with the Ring Dinger® trademark.
If you are experiencing neck or spine-related issues, always consult with a licensed and qualified practitioner before undergoing any form of spinal care.
Meet Author: Experience Behind This Article
Author: Yama Zafer, D.C. – Neck Pull Risks & Ring Dinger Dangers
Yama Zafer, D.C., has a postgraduate degree in chiropractic and a foundational background in physiotherapy. A graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic University in Kansas City, he has spent nearly three decades in physiotherapy and chiropractic care—focusing on non-invasive methods that integrate hands-on physiotherapy, exercise, and spinal care.
👉 Read more about Y. Zafer: https://www.yourchiro.com.my/blog/about-yama-zafer-dc/
Peer-reviewed References
- Bogduk, N. (2005). Clinical Anatomy of the Cervical Spine. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Lieberman, A. N., & Hass, W. K. (1968). Vertebral artery compression due to osteophytes. Journal of Neurosurgery, 28(3), 226-231.
- Thanvi, B., Munshi, S. K., Dawson, S. L., & Robinson, T. G. (2005). Vertebral artery dissection: a review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. Postgraduate Medical Journal, 81(956), 383-388.
- Scali, F., Pontell, M. E., & Enix, D. E. (2013). The myodural bridge and its possible role in cerebrospinal fluid circulation. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 113(5), 394–396.
- Montalvan, B., & Lecler, A. (2019). Vertebral artery dissection: State of the art diagnosis and management. Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging, 100(12), 717–723.
Last Updated
Last updated on 4 July 2025 | Neck Pull Risks and Ring Dinger Concerns