While structural damage to a motor vehicle can be fixed relatively quickly following a car accident, the associated health problems affecting a driver or passenger may linger for much longer.
Even minor car accidents can cause physical pain that may result in impaired movement and psychological distress.
Researchers at the Division of Physiotherapy, University of Queensland are conducting two clinical trials investigating the recovery of neck pain following car accidents.
One trial examines whether a multi-professional treatment approach is useful in treating accident related neck pain. The other trial is tracking the progression of neck symptoms following a car crash.
Both Professor Gwendolen Jull and Dr Michele Sterling, who are heading up the research, have extensive experience in treating patients with acute neck pain following car accidents.
Professor Jull said the current research would add to the understanding of neck pain following a motor vehicle accident.
"This will ultimately assist in the assessment and best management of the condition,” she said.
Volunteers who have neck pain resulting from a motor vehicle accident which has occurred within the past four weeks, and are aged between 18 and 65 years of age are required for the current research.
Participants will attend the Whiplash Clinic at the University’s St Lucia campus for four testing sessions of approximately two hours each over a 12 month period.
A range of physical tests examining neck function will be conducted during each appointment. Participants will also be asked to complete a series of questionnaires to help identify the range and severity of symptoms, as well as establish how neck pain can affect a patient’s everyday life.
To volunteer or for further information please contact Brad Sanderson or Kathy Francis on (07) 3365 4529, or email .auacutewhiplashresearch@shrs.uq.edu.au.
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