Whiplash researchers need volunteers

Researchers at the Division of Physiotherapy, The University of Queensland are conducting two clinical trials investigating the recovery of neck pain following car accidents.

Even minor car accidents can cause physical pain that may result in impaired movement and psychological distress.

One trial being conducted at UQ examines whether a multi-professional treatment approach is useful or not in treating neck pain following a whiplash injury. The other trial is tracking the recovery of neck symptoms following whiplash.

UQ academic Professor Gwen Jull said that it was important that researchers learned more about whiplash.

"The results of this research will improve the understanding of neck pain following a motor vehicle accident, and will improve the assessment as well as inform on the best management of whiplash,” she said.

Volunteers (females and males; 18-65 years of age) with neck pain resulting from a motor vehicle accident within four weeks of the injury are required.

Participants should have no prior history of neck pain requiring treatment before the accident. The University will be seeking volunteers until December 2006.

Professor Jull said volunteers would be required to 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 tests examining neck function will be conducted during each appointment. Participants will also be asked to complete a series of questionnaires.

If joining the clinical trial, half the volunteers will be randomised into a 10 week management which is being tested, and the other half are free to seek treatment of their choice. All volunteers are followed up over a 12 month period to monitor their recovery.

To volunteer for these studies or for further information please contact
Kathy Francis or Ashley Pedler on 3365 4529, or email acutewhiplashresearch@shrs.uq.edu.au.