Vascular flow limitations affecting the cervico-cranial region: Understanding ischaemia

Abstract

Background: Blood flow and brain ischaemia have been of interest to physical therapists for decades. Despite much debate, and multiple publications around risk assessment of the cervical spine, more work is required to achieve consensus on this vital, complex topic. In 2020, the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) Cervical Framework adopted the dubious terminology 'vascular pathologies of the neck', which is misleading, on the premise that 1) not all flow limitations leading to ischaemia, are associated with observable blood vessel pathology and 2) not all blood flow limitations leading to ischaemia, are in the anatomical region of the 'neck'.

Objective: This paper draws upon the full body of haemodynamic knowledge and science, to describe the variety of arterial flow limitations affecting the cervico-cranial region.

Discussion: It is the authors' contention that to apply clinical reasoning and appropriate risk assessment of the cervical spine, there is a requirement for clinicians to have a clear understanding of anatomy/anatomical relations, the haemodynamic science of vascular flow limitation, and related pathologies. This paper describes the wide range of presentations and haemodynamic mechanisms that clinicians may encounter in practice. In cases with a high index suspicion of vascular involvement or an adverse response to assessment/intervention, appropriate referral should be made for further investigations, using consistent terminology. The term 'vascular flow limitation' is proposed when considering the range of mechanisms at play. This fits the terminology used (in vascular literature) at other anatomical sites and is understood by medical colleagues.

Keywords: Cervico-cranial; Ischaemia; Neck; Physical therapy; Risk assessment; Vascular.