Vertebral Artery and Cerebral Hemodynamics After Various Head Positions & Manipulation in Patients With Neck Pain

Changes in Vertebral Artery and Cerebral Hemodynamics Following Various Head Positions & Cervical Manipulation in Patients With Chronic/Recurrent Neck Pain

The Investigators are performing a study to determine, in patients with chronic/recurrent neck pain, the cerebrovascular hemodynamic consequences of cervical spine movements, including manipulation, in vivo using fMRI technology on vertebral and cranial blood flow dynamics affecting brain perfusion, and extend the current data set on these variables

The goal of the study is to further investigate in patients with chronic/recurrent neck pain, the cerebrovascular hemodynamic consequences of cervical spine positions, including manipulation, in vivo under clinically relevant circumstances using two advanced MRI technology on the vertebral and posterior cerebral and cerebellar blood flow dynamics affecting brain perfusion. According to the knowledge of the investigators, a study utilizing MRI to examine blood flow and perfusion, turbulence and evidence of micro-trauma within these blood vessels has yet to be conducted.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults aged 18 years and older with chronic/recurrent neck pain Grade II.
2. Must have been prescribed cervical spinal manipulation for treatment of their neck pain condition.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. A history of neck pain with associated arm pain within the last 6 months
2. Any current or history of neurologic symptoms including facial or extremity weakness, abnormal sensation to the face, body, or extremities, uncontrolled movements, abnormal gait, dizziness, unexplained nausea/vomiting, difficulty with speaking or swallowing
3. History of new or severe (Visual Analogue Scale >6) headaches in the last 3 months
4. Any contraindications to MRI
5. Any history of using drugs that affect blood flow such as Warfarin, or anti-coagulants.