Cervical Strain/Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) Management

Abstract

Introduction: “Cervical strain and whiplash” secondary to a motor vehicle accident (MVA) are commonly treated in an emergency room and frequently referred to outpatient physical therapy care. Though, the Quebec Task Force on whiplash associated disorder (WAD) has provided clinical practice guidelines, due to low-level evidence available, the third aspect of evidence-based practice, namely, clinical expertise continues primarily to guide management of this diagnosis.
Purpose: This case analysis applies current evidence regarding the use of core stability training in WAD while also incorporating the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Model in an elite athlete case.
Methods: Case study generated regarding an elite athlete who sustained whiplash/cervical strain injury status post motor vehicle accident. The patient care model was utilized to detail the application of evidence based practice.
Discussion: Discussion points to apply current evidence are integrated within each aspect of the patient care model, namely, Evaluation, Assessment, Diagnosis, Prognosis and Intervention.
Conclusions: Though low-level evidence has been available to support clinical management guidelines for management of whiplash, clinicians can refer to these guidelines while applying available evidence and clinical expertise for effective patient recovery.