To determine the effect of head position on the hemodynamics of the vertebral arteries, three normal subjects will be assessed utilising duplex ultrasound. Imaging will take place bilaterally at the mastoid slope, and any disturbances in the flow will be recorded via a pulsed doppler flowmeter
Three head positions will be analysed: a neutral head position as a control; De Kleyn’s position, consisting of hyperextension and rotation; and the pre-manipulative position, which involves a combination of rotation, side-bend, and flexion/extension, depending on the area of manipulation, and the direction of the manipulation.
Quantative analysis of the velocity signal will reveal the extent of flow disturbance in each artery and in each position, thus enabling conclusions to be drawn on the validity of the De Kleyn’s position as a screen for VBI, and to make comment on the amount of stress placed on the vertebral artery during cervical manipulation.
Grant Value: $550
Chief Investigator: Dr Chi Kong Fung – Macquarie University
Status: Complete
Outcomes:
No outcomes sourced at this time