Factors affecting the timing of recovery from whiplash neck injuries: study of a cohort of 134 patients pursuing litigation

Abstract

A cohort of 134 patients presenting in medico-legal practice with whiplash neck injury following a motor vehicle accident was studied prospectively by personal interviewing. Injury- and patient-related factors with possible influence to the timing of recovery were analysed with univariate and multivariate statistical methods. Logistic regression showed significant association between high physical demand patient occupation and recovery within 6 months from injury (P = 0.036, coefficient 1.5, odds ratio 4.47) while initiation of physiotherapy treatment was associated with prolongation of symptoms for more than 6 months following injury (P < 0.001, coefficient -2.6, odds ratio 0.08). An association between development of arm pain (P = 0.01), upper limb numbness or paraesthesia (P = 0.03) and bilateral trapezius pain (P = 0.04) and persistence of whiplash-related symptoms was also observed. These findings must be taken into account in evaluation and treatment of patients with acute whiplash injuries pursuing litigation.