his study aims to investigate whether Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) affects cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow and glymphatic clearance in the human brain. CSF plays an important role in brain health by supporting nutrient delivery, waste removal, and pressure regulation. Aging and certain neurological conditions are associated with reduced CSF circulation and impaired brain waste clearance.
Participants will undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans before and after a 30-minute OMT session to evaluate changes in CSF flow dynamics and brain physiology. The study will also examine whether age, cognition, sleep quality, physical function, anxiety, and depression are associated with changes in CSF flow following OMT.
The study will enroll healthy adults between 18 and 80 years of age. Data collected from MRI imaging and questionnaires may help improve understanding of the physiological effects of OMT and its potential role in supporting brain health
Healthy adults between 18 and 80 years of age
Able and willing to provide informed consent
Able to safely undergo MRI procedures
Able to participate in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)
History of severe traumatic brain injury
Fibromyalgia
Epilepsy
Severe neurodegenerative disorders
Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Lead sponsor
Auburn University MRI Research Center
Collaborator