The long-term prognosis of whiplash-associated disorders (WAD).
Somatic and mental symptoms in 22 patients (16 women and 6 men) 22-73 months after a whiplash injury are described. The results of the present study are compared with the corresponding results of a previous study on the same patients. According to the Quebec Classification System, the whiplash injuries of 15 patients were classified as grade 2 and those of 7 patients as grade 3. Pain intensity was evaluated by means of a visual analogue scale and muscular tenderness was assessed by pressure algometry. Algometry was also used to measure the pain tolerance level. The Mood Adjective Check List was used as a measure of mental well-being. During the 2 years that had passed since the previous study, the patients had improved regarding pain intensity, pain tolerance level and mental well-being. The results show that patients with prolonged disability after a whiplash injury can improve even after a long time.
Olivegren
H
H
Department of Psychiatry, Physiotherapy Section, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Mölndal, S-43180 Mölndal, Sweden.
Jerkvall
N
N
Hagström
Y
Y
Carlsson
J
J
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D000368:Aged; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000503:physiopathology; D009333:Neck / Q000503:physiopathology; D010146:Pain / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D010147:Pain Measurement / Q000379:methods; D011379:Prognosis; D013997:Time Factors; D014911:Whiplash Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology*