The presence and prognosis of nerve pathology following whiplash injury: a prospective cohort study

Review written by Dr Julia Treleaven info

Key Points

  1. Acute nerve injury post whiplash is relatively common.
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

By definition, whiplash associated disorder (WAD) grade II, is the most common grade and generally associated with neck pain and musculoskeletal impairments without frank neurological injury. However subtle nerve injury may be present (1). This may contribute to poor recovery and ongoing pain and disability in some (2-4). Understanding the development and nature of nerve pathology could help direct targeted management.

This longitudinal cohort study aimed to investigate the presence, temporal patterns, and prognostic value of nerve pathology and neuropathic pain in WAD II.

Whiplash associated disorder grade II, is the most common grade and generally associated with neck pain and musculoskeletal impairments without frank neurological injury, however subtle nerve injury may be present.
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A comprehensive history including pain descriptors and symptom behavior in addition to a neurological clinical assessment should be used to identify and monitor neuropathic pain and nerve pathology post whiplash.

METHODS

  • 129 people with WAD II within four weeks of injury and 36 healthy individuals were assessed at baseline and six months later.
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