Popping on side of neck?

Joint inflammation: There are several cervical facets or neck joints. In fact there are 2 at each level with 7 levels giving you a total of 14 joints. Over time these joints can "wear out" leading to degeneration and inflammation of the joint. When a joint becomes inflammed it often swells due to increased synovial fluid. When this fluid is forced out of the joint it is common to feel and/or hear a "pop".