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Abstract
Psychological factors have been alleged to be important in the course and outcome
of ‘whiplash’ neck injury but there is little quantitative evidence. This study uses
quantitative methods involving a prospective interview assessment to describe psychological
and quality of life predictors, and 3 and 12 month outcome. Consecutive attenders
to the Accident and Emergency department of a teaching district hospital with a clinical
diagnosis of ‘whiplash’ neck injury were included and there were follow-up interviews
at home. Neck symptoms were recorded, and there was a standard mental-state interview
with added questions about post-traumatic symptoms and a semi-structured interview
for disability and consequences for quality of life. There was a wide individual variation
in course and outcome; the majority of subjects complained of persistent neck symptoms
and a sizeable minority reported specific post-traumatic psychological symptoms (intrusive
memory, phobic travel anxiety), similar to those described by patients suffering multiple
injuries. Social impairment, including effects on travel, were considerable in one-quarter.
Reports of persistent neck symptoms were not associated with any baseline psychological
variables or with compensation proceedings; psychological factors appeared to be more
important in determining the extent of social impairment. We conclude that travel,
social and psychological morbidity is substantially greater than previously recognized.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
June 12,
1996
Identification
Copyright
© 1996 Published by Elsevier Inc.
