Citation

Siegmund GP, Winkelstein BA, Ivancic PC, Svensson MY, Vasavada A. Traffic Injury Prev. 2009; 10(2): 101-112.

Affiliation

MEA Forensic Engineers & Scientists, 11-11151 Horseshoe Way, Richmond, BC, Canada. gunter.siegmund@meaforensic.com

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15389580802593269

PMID

19333822

Abstract

Whiplash injury is the most common motor vehicle injury, yet it is also one of the most poorly understood. Here we examine the evidence supporting an organic basis for acute and chronic whiplash injuries and review the anatomical sites within the neck that are potentially injured during these collisions. For each proposed anatomical site--facet joints, spinal ligaments, intervertebral discs, vertebral arteries, dorsal root ganglia, and neck muscles--we present the clinical evidence supporting that injury site, its relevant anatomy, the mechanism of and tolerance to injury, and the future research needed to determine whether that site is responsible for some whiplash injuries. This article serves as a snapshot of the current state of whiplash biomechanics research and provides a roadmap for future research to better understand and ultimately prevent whiplash injuries.

Language: en