Thoracic spine dysfunction in musculoskeletal presentations

We aim to understand the development of, and contribution of thoracic dysfunction in musculoskeletal presentations.

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Specifically:

• Whiplash Associated Disorder

Our management of Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD) has evolved to considerably over the years, however 

• Many individuals go on to develop chronic pain and disability
• Management interventions are  primarily focused to neck pain
• Emergence of evidence to suggest involvement of the thoracic spine
• Techniques to evaluate thoracic dysfunction are not widely available

Individuals also present with stiffness and pain in other parts of the body including the thoracic spine therefore this research aims to:

• Investigate thoracic dysfunction (mobility, stiffness and posture) in individuals with chronic WAD
• Evaluate possible relationships between the extent of musculoskeletal dysfunction and perceived levels of disability

What are the outcomes of this research?

Findings from this research will inform the development and evaluation of new interventions aimed at managing Whiplash Associated Disorder

People involved

Chief Investigator:

• Nicola Heneghan 

Co Investigators:

• Alison Rushton 
• Alison Hall