Thoracic dysfunction in whiplash associated disorders: A systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Research investigating Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) has largely focused on the cervical spine yet symptoms can be widespread. Thoracic spine pain prevalence is reported ~66%; perhaps unsurprising given the forceful stretch/eccentric loading of posterior structures of the spine, and the thoracic spine's contribution to neck mobility/function. Approximately 50% WAD patients develop chronic pain and disability resulting in high levels of societal and healthcare costs. It is time to look beyond the cervical spine to fully understand anatomical dysfunction in WAD and provide new directions for clinical practice and research.

Purpose

To evaluate the scope and nature of dysfunction in the thoracic region in patients with WAD.

Methods

A systematic review and

SUBMITTER: Heneghan NR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5865734 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature