Increase in cerebral blood flow indicated by increased cerebral arterial area and pixel intensity on brain magnetic resonance angiogram following correction of cervical lordosis

Researchers explored whether improving the natural inward curve of the neck (called cervical lordosis) can immediately enhance blood flow to the brain.

Who Was Involved

• 7 adults (5 women, 2 men), ages 28 to 58.

• Each had a measured neck curve ranging from severely reduced (–13.1°) to modestly reduced (19.0°). (Ideal curve is approx. –42°.)

What They Did

• Before and after correction of the neck curve, participants had brain MRI angiograms to measure blood flow via pixel intensity in brain arteries.

• Correction used a spinal orthotic device—the Cervical Denneroll—to restore spinal curve.

What Was Found

• After correction, cerebral blood flow increased between 23% to 225.9%, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001).

• The greater the deviation from normal lordosis before correction, the smaller the percentage increase in flow. That suggests patients with the most reduced curve might get less immediate benefit.

Conclusions

• Correcting cervical lordosis may produce an immediate boost in cerebral blood flow.

• The more abnormal the curve initially, the less gain was observed.

• Results are preliminary. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings and determine clinical relevance.

FAQ Section

Q: What is cervical lordosis?

A: It’s the natural inward curve of the neck (seen from the side). It helps absorb shocks and support the head’s weight.

Q: Why does blood flow to the brain change when the neck curve is corrected?

A: Misaligned vertebrae can compress arteries and alter hemodynamics. Restoring curvature may relieve pressure or improve vascular pathways.

Q: Can improving neck curve help with dizziness or headaches?

A: This study suggests that blood flow increases after correction, which may help neurological symptoms—but it does not prove symptom improvement yet.

Q: Is this study proof that CBP will change brain blood flow for all patients?

A: No. Sample was small. Results are promising but need replication in larger, controlled trials.

Q: Should everyone get neck curve correction to improve brain blood flow?

A: Not necessarily. The decision should come from clinical assessment, risk-benefit analysis, and patient goals. Evidence is preliminary.