Neck pain natural history, complications and prognosis

After days and weeks neck pain usually become better, but can reoccur or become chronic.In 10% of population it become chronic and, proportion of disability is 5% of affected people.Disability is more common with Whiplash injuries.40% of patients with Wiplash injuries reported symptoms after 15 years.

• The symptoms of whiplash injuries may develop after 15 years follow up.
• If left untreated, 10% of patients with neck pain may become chronic or recurrent.^[1]
• In terms of overall disability, it ranks fourth in the world and, causes increase absence from work, insurance costs and decrease work efficiency.^[2][3]

• Common complications of whiplash injuries include:
  • Chronic neck pain
  • Headache

• Depending on the cause of the neck pain, the prognosis may vary. However, the prognosis is generally regarded as good.
• Disability is more common with Whiplash injuries.40% of patients with Whiplash injuries reported symptoms after 15 years.^[1]

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