How Does A Patient Predict Their Whiplash Outcome at Coast Chiropractic Centers?
May 6, 2021 -- Posted by :With up to 50% of whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) patients experiencing long-term symptoms, is there a way to predict which patients are likely to recover following a whiplash injury? To answer this question, a team of researchers analyzed findings from twelve systemic reviews to identify prognostic factors that could help predict patient outcomes following a whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) injury.
The authors concluded that the outcome of acute whiplash was dependent more on the association between initial pain and anxiety and less on physical factors such as MRI or x-ray findings, motor examination findings, and collision factors (impact direction, car speed at impact, seatbelt or headrest use, or the extent of vehicular damage).
What can be done for the patients who are at the greatest risk for ongoing issues? A 2020 study investigated the potential benefits that a multimodal rehabilitation (MMR) program had for sub-acute (six to twelve weeks) and chronic (more than twelve weeks) WAD patients with soft tissue injuries and no nerve injury or bone fractures. The participants were first examined by a multi-professional team that included a pain and rehabilitation specialist (PM&R), a psychologist, an occupational therapist (OT), a physiotherapist (PT), a social worker, and a nurse. This same team then treated the patients over a five-week timeframe.
The investigators then compared standardized questionnaires completed by participants both before and after the treatment period and then one year later. The researchers reported that participants achieved significant long-term improvements with respect to overall physical and mental health, pain intensity, ability to carry out everyday activities, anxiety, and depression.
Many chiropractors utilize a multi-modal approach when treating WAD patients to address three goals: pain management, functional restoration, and self-management strategies to minimize the need for long-term professional care. When needed, a coordinated care approach is set up between allied healthcare professions that may include PT, OT, clinical psychology, and/or others
So, if you have had a car accident in Fort Myers and you type in chiropractor near me or pain management near me, whiplash, or even car accident lawyer you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up. You may wonder, “do I need an MRI scan of my neck or back.” Also, if you feel arm or leg pain it may indicate things are getting worse and may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your neck and/or back. Shoulder pain is very common with whiplash and could require conservative treatment right away to avoid injections or worse yet, surgery. A foggy brain may indicate a mild traumatic brain injury. Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional. Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 and we will submit the bills to your auto carrier for payment.