Management approach for whiplash-associated disorder

Management for whiplash-associated disorder (acceleration–deceleration injuries) should incorporate a multidimensional approach, addressing psychological components (eg anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD]) and any motor or sensory issues. At the time of writing, there is limited evidence on suitable treatment options for whiplash-associated disorder. The recommended treatment approach is the same as for nonspecific neck pain.

Key management principles for whiplash-associated disorder should include:

• addressing any emotional elements associated with the injury, this includes being attentive to the patients’ symptoms, their needs, and using positive language
• reassuring the patient that imaging is not needed if there is no alerting feature to indicate a serious pathology (see The Canadian C-Spine Rule for advice on when to do imaging for an acceleration–deceleration injury)
• providing analgesia and advice for patients with uncontrolled pain.