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Cognitive function and distress after common whiplash injury
1Department of Neuropsychology, University Clinic of Neurology, University Hospital of Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Stressful life events and high distress levels post-whiplash injury may increase the risk of developing late whiplash syndrome. Early assessment should include social factors and psychological symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychology
- Traumatology
Background:
- Prospective study of 29 patients with Whiplash-Associated Disorders grade III.
- Utilized the Quebec classification for patient criteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the impact of life events and distress on whiplash recovery.
- Identify risk factors for late whiplash syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Administered neuropsychological tests, clinical interviews, and SCL-90-R at 1 month post-injury.
- Extrapolated pain, cognitive, and sleep scales from SCL-90-R.
- Repeated SCL-90-R at 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- 85% of patients returned to work within 1 month.
- Subjective cognitive issues were common but not linked to objective test performance.
- Unrelated stressful life events correlated with higher distress and more symptoms.
- At follow-up, distress remained elevated, and subjective cognitive function worsened.
Conclusions:
- Unrelated stressful life events and early high distress are potential risk factors for late whiplash syndrome.
- Recommend reassessment 3-6 weeks post-injury, including social factors and psychological screening.