[Whiplash injury of the cervical spine]

SOFT TISSUE INJURY: Whiplash injuries of the cervical spine are common, usually after traffic accidents. Soft tissue injuries may involve the muscles, ligaments, disks, and facet joints (excluding severe cases of fracture or dislocation not discussed here).

There are 2 cardinal signs: neck pain and headache. These signs may be associated or not with other symptoms.

Most cases follow a benign course and resolve within a few weeks or months. Symptoms persist however in 20 to 40% of the cases. Evolutive organ injury, sensitization of the central nervous system, and secondary psychological reactions (including desire for financial compensation) all contribute to the development of a chronic situation.

Excepting cases with over neurological complications, it is particularly difficult to assess the nature and seriousness of whiplash injuries with physical examination and imaging. This diagnostic difficulty explains the frequency of medicolegal procedures. It is particularly difficult to treat chronic forms. If a medicolegal procedure is in course, it is advisable that the expert reports and fair compensation be established as rapidly as possible.