Head & Neck Injuries/Conditions

Print Page | Close Window

Neck Question

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: Head & Neck Injuries/Conditions
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about head & neck injuries/conditions.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=342
Printed Date: Dec 12 2024 at 11:47am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.03 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Neck Question

Posted By: Ask a PT
Subject: Neck Question
Date Posted: Jan 07 2009 at 12:36pm

Our user asked: "I have a question about the vertebral artery. I am remember the vertebral artery runs through foramen on both the left and right sides of the cervical spine, and that combined extension and rotation can stress it. Before I went into physical therapy school, I had the habit of "cracking" my neck by extending and rotating it. If I did this like everyday for 2 years, do you think I have caused any permanent damage to the artery? Should I have this checked out?"

Ask a PT Response: "The vertebral arteries run through the transverse foramen of of the cervercial vertebrae and could be compromised with cervical extension, rotation and sidebend to the same side. In regards to your question, are you experiencing numbness/tingling, pain, etc which might lead you to believe that you have damaged your vertebral artery?"