Changes of Pain Sensitivity During Rehabilitation of Patients Suffering From Whiplash Associated Disorders

Whiplash Associated Disorders - Sensory Changes During Rehabilitation

This study investigates the sensory profile of people suffering from whiplash associated disorders (WAD) during rehabilitation.

Altered pain sensitivity is commonly reported in WAD populations when compared to a healthy control group but how/if this changes over time during rehabilitation is unclear. This study investigates the effect of 2 weeks rehabilitation protocol on pain sensitivity in a group suffering from WAD compared to a healthy control group.

Inclusion Criteria:

WAD

• No more than 3 weeks since MVA/WAD
• WAD grade II defined by Quebec Task Force classification

Controls • Being healthy and free from any pain specific to the low back and/or in general

Exclusion Criteria:

Applies for both groups:

• Pain related to a specific pathology such as spinal stenosis, metastasis, fracture, nerve lesions or injuries to the brain etc.
• Previous painful condition (including neck pain) in the previous 6 months.
• Prior surgery in the neck or shoulder area.
• Radiculopathy.
• Multiple painful sites/areas unrelated to the neck pain.
• Operation to the spine.
• Any neurological or systemic diseases which can affect the outcome measures.
• Pregnancy.
• Lack of ability to cooperate.

Additional exclusion criteria for Controls:

• No current or previous history of on-going pain, defined as pain in the neck/shoulder region and/or elsewhere during the past 6 months.