Chronic whiplash and whiplash-associated disorders: an evidence-based approach

Whiplash is neck pain experienced as a result of a motor vehicle collision or similar trauma. Following a motor vehicle collision, 15% to 40% of patients with acute neck pain develop chronic neck pain. The cervical facet joint is the most common source of chronic neck pain after whiplash injury, followed by disk pain. Some patients experience pain from both structures. Initial management recommendations need not be directed toward an exact structural cause, but treatment includes advising the patient to remain active, prescribing medications when necessary, and providing advice regarding the generally favorable outcome. When neck pain persists, the physician should recommend medial branch blocks of the dorsal rami of the spinal nerves that supply the putative painful facet joint or joints; this is done to determine whether the facet joints are the cause of pain. When significant relief occurs on two occasions, radiofrequency neurotomy typically provides substantial relief for approximately 8 to 12 months and can be repeated indefinitely as needed. Occasionally, long-term treatment with medication may be indicated. Anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion is necessary on rare occasions.