Clinical Services
Whiplash and Cervical Spine Injury
Whiplash describes an acceleration-deceleration mechanism that commonly produces sprain and strain injuries involving the neck and surrounding tissues. The initial diagnosis is often straightforward. The more difficult clinical question is determining the full extent of the injury and whether associated neurological, vestibular, oculomotor, ligamentous, or functional problems are also present.
Beyond the Initial Sprain-Strain Diagnosis
The term whiplash may encompass injuries involving muscles, tendons, joint capsules, ligaments, discs, nerve roots, and other cervical structures. Some patients also develop headaches, dizziness, visual symptoms, balance problems, cognitive complaints, or signs of concussion.
These associated problems may require a broader examination than a routine pain-focused assessment. Dr. Albright's evaluation is individualized to the history, symptoms, and clinical question presented.
The components selected depend upon the history, symptoms, examination findings, clinical setting, records available, and purpose of the evaluation.
Common Presenting Complaints
- Neck pain and restricted range of motion
- Headaches
- Shoulder, arm, or hand symptoms
- Dizziness or balance disturbance
- Visual symptoms
- Cognitive complaints
- Fatigue or sleep disturbance
- Jaw symptoms
Evaluation Components
Detailed review of the collision mechanism, symptom onset, and clinical course.
Range of motion, orthopedic testing, neurological testing, and assessment for signs consistent with ligament injury. Referral for additional imaging when indicated.
Assessment of cranial nerves, motor function, sensory function, reflexes, coordination, cerebellar function, gait, and postural control as clinically appropriate.
Assessment of fixation, smooth pursuits, saccades, convergence, gaze stability, and visual-vestibular integration when clinically indicated.
Static and dynamic balance, sensory integration, postural stability, gait, and coordination as appropriate to the presentation.
Cervical ligament injury may not be visible on standard imaging. When clinically indicated, Dr. Albright can evaluate for alteration of motion segment integrity (AOMSI) through quantitative radiographic analysis and clinical correlation. AOMSI findings, when present, may have significance for diagnosis, treatment planning, and med-legal documentation.
Review of available imaging and prior records to inform clinical correlation and documentation.
Written clinical report addressing findings, functional limitations, and causation opinions when supported by the evidence and requested by the referring party.
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Contact us to discuss whether a cervical spine and neurological evaluation is appropriate for your situation.
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