Changes of Pain Sensitivity During Rehabilitation of Patients Suffering From Whiplash Associated Disorders

Altered pain sensitivity is commonly reported in WAD populations when compared to a healthy control group but how/if this changes over time during rehabilitation is unclear. This study investigates the effect of 2 weeks rehabilitation protocol on pain sensitivity in a group suffering from WAD compared to a healthy control group.

Inclusion criteria

WAD

• No more than 3 weeks since MVA/WAD
• WAD grade II defined by Quebec Task Force classification

Controls • Being healthy and free from any pain specific to the low back and/or in general

Exclusion criteria

Applies for both groups:

• Pain related to a specific pathology such as spinal stenosis, metastasis, fracture, nerve lesions or injuries to the brain etc.
• Previous painful condition (including neck pain) in the previous 6 months.
• Prior surgery in the neck or shoulder area.
• Radiculopathy.
• Multiple painful sites/areas unrelated to the neck pain.
• Operation to the spine.
• Any neurological or systemic diseases which can affect the outcome measures.
• Pregnancy.
• Lack of ability to cooperate.

Additional exclusion criteria for Controls:

• No current or previous history of on-going pain, defined as pain in the neck/shoulder region and/or elsewhere during the past 6 months.