[A systemic review of the value of physical therapy in whiplash neck injury].
OBJECTIVE
A systematic review is performed to evaluate the clinical effects of initial immobilisation by a neck collar and physiotherapy in whiplash neck injury.


METHODS
A computer aided Medline research (1985 - 2002) of randomised clinical trials concerning both rehabilitation concepts was conducted. A rating system was used to assess the methodological score of each study. Their results were analysed and a final statement for evidence according to three main parameters (neck pain, range of motion, and patients comfort) was postulated.


RESULTS
Eight randomised clinical trials were identified. Six studies were determined as high-quality trials. For the neck, back immobilisation do not appear to improve the patients' conditions sufficiently. In comparison, for physiotherapy there is strong benefit for pain, range of motion and patients' comfort in comparison to no treatment and a soft collar.


CONCLUSIONS
Principally, am early active rehabilitation with physiotherapy without initial immobilisation is highly recommended in whiplash neck injury.
Weinhardt
C
C
Orthopädische Klinik, Herzogin Elisabeth Heim, Braunschweig, Germany. chkawei@hotmail.com
Heller
K D
KD
D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D014911:Whiplash Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*