Sensorimotor integration, cervical sensorimotor control, and cost of cognitive-motor dual tasking: Are there differences in patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorders and chronic idiopathic neck pain compared to healthy controls?

PURPOSE

The current investigation aimed to compare the sensorimotor integration, sensorimotor control, and cost of cognitive-motor dual task during walking, in persons with chronic WAD as compared to matched chronic idiopathic neck pain and normal healthy controls.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, case control design comparing 30 participants in each of two study groups (chronic WAD and chronic idiopathic neck pain) to a matched control group was conducted. Measurements included: (1) the cranio-vertebral angle (CVA), (2) left and right rotation head repositioning accuracy (HRA), (3) frontal N30 amplitudes to assess sensorimotor integration, (4) dual cognitive gait cost (DCGC).

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference for the CVA was found between groups: WAD 36.8° ± 3.4, chronic pain 44.5° ± 1.5, and controls 47.1° ± 4; p < 0.05. MANOVA revealed significant group differences for the N30 amplitude (p < 0.05), where the WAD group had the greatest amplitude. Statistically significant differences among the three groups were found for HRA left and right where the WAD group had the greatest error, (p < 0.05). Post hoc tests revealed that the WAD group had the highest dual-task cost during walking, (p < 0.05). Significant linear correlations between the CVA and N30 amplitude, HRA, and DCGC were identified in all 3 groups, (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to both a matched control group and chronic neck pain group, whiplash-injured persons have greater forward head posture, greater error in sensorimotor control, and an altered ability to perform a motor task with a simultaneous cognitive task.