Effectiveness of Physician Education vs. Rehabilitation for Whiplash
Author Information
Author(s): Côté Pierre, Cassidy J David, Carette Simon, Boyle Eleanor, Shearer Heather M, Stupar Maja, Ammendolia Carlo, van der Velde Gabrielle, Hayden Jill A, Yang Xiaoqing, van Tulder Maurits, Frank John W
Primary Institution: University Health Network
Hypothesis
Is physician care more effective than two rehabilitation programs for improving recovery in patients with whiplash-associated disorders?
Conclusion
The study aims to provide evidence on the effectiveness of physician care compared to rehabilitation programs for managing whiplash-associated disorders.
Supporting Evidence
- Whiplash injuries lead to significant disability and high health care utilization.
- Previous studies suggest physician care may be the most effective treatment for whiplash.
- No randomized trials have previously investigated the effectiveness of coordinated rehabilitation programs for whiplash.
Takeaway
This study is trying to find out if seeing a doctor helps people with neck injuries from car accidents get better faster than going to rehab.
Methodology
A three-arm pragmatic randomized controlled trial with 444 participants diagnosed with Grade I or II Whiplash-associated Disorders.
Potential Biases
Potential contamination bias if multiple passengers from the same vehicle are randomized to different treatment arms.
Limitations
The study may have a 30% loss-to-follow-up rate.
Participant Demographics
Individuals aged 18 and older, diagnosed with Grade I or II Whiplash-associated Disorders, residing in Southern Ontario.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website