Study of Atlas Bone Alignment and Surrounding Tissues in Adults with Chronic Whiplash Injury Compared to Tension Headache and Healthy Adults

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on chronic whiplash-associated disorder WAD, a condition caused by rapid neck movement leading to injury of bones or soft tissues and resulting in symptoms like pain and reduced neck movement. The study aims to evaluate the position and alignment of the Atlas C1 vertebra in people with chronic WAD compared to those with tension headaches and healthy individuals. It also explores how these factors relate to pain intensity, neck movement limits, daily activities, overall improvement, and quality of life. Participants include healthy controls, patients with chronic WAD grades 1 or 2, and individuals with tension headache. The study uses advanced MRI imaging to assess the Atlas and surrounding tissues without any intervention. It will measure the feasibility and repeatability of MRI in healthy controls and compare MRI findings among the three groups. The study also collects neurological exam results and patient-reported outcome questionnaires. Participants will undergo MRI scans and neurological exams at specified intervals up to 18 months, with some measures extending to 24 months. Researchers will evaluate repeatability of MRI measurements, alignment of the Atlas, neurological scores, quality of life, muscle volume, fat accumulation, and blood flow. The study includes healthy volunteers aged 18 to 75 years and monitors participants through questionnaires and imaging to understand the relationship between anatomical changes and symptoms in chronic WAD.

Assessment of the Alignment of the Atlas and Surrounding Tissues in Chronic Whiplash Associated Disorder