Whiplash and physical fitness
Take Home Messages:
High levels of fitness prior to injury are associated with a shorter recovery time following whiplash injury. Therefore:
- Aerobic based fitness should be encouraged in frequent road users; and
- Rehabilitative treatment should be considered earlier in individuals with a low level of pre-injury fitness.
Why the research matters:
Whiplash injury is common and can be debilitating. Therefore it is important that factors that may impact on recovery are investigated. This may help reduce recovery time in those that are injured.
What the research involved:
This study, conducted in the UK, looked at the impact of pre-injury fitness on the recovery of a group of police following whiplash injury. 102 members of the police force suffering from neck pain following whiplash injury participated in the study. Questionnaires, administered at the study’s commencement and at 3 and 6 months, were used to assess participants’ pre-injury fitness levels as well as to track their recovery.
Summary of research findings:
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Higher levels of fitness prior to injury are associated with a shorter recovery time following whiplash injury.
- 3 months after injury, 0% of those with a low level of fitness prior to injury had achieved full functional recovery, compared to 53% of those with medium fitness and 47% of those with high fitness;
- 6 months after injury, 35% of those with a low level of fitness prior to injury had achieved full functional recovery, compared to 82% of those with medium fitness and 76% of those with high fitness;
Based on these findings, the following recommendations were made:
- Aerobic based fitness should be encouraged in frequent road users; and
- Rehabilitative treatment should be considered earlier in individuals with a low level of pre-injury fitness.
Original research:
The effect of pre-injury physical fitness on the initial severity and recovery from whiplash injury, at six-month follow-up.
Geldman M, Moore A, Cheek L.
Clin Rehabil. 2008 Apr;22(4):364-76.