Impact of Directional Preference on Movement Coordination in Whiplash Patients

The Influence of Directional Preference on Movement Coordination Deficits in Individuals With Whiplash Associated Disorders

Observational D'Youville College · NCT06143228

This study is testing whether having a specific direction that feels better can help people with whiplash move better and feel less pain compared to those who don’t have that preference.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment65 (estimated)
Ages19 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorD'Youville College Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Tallahassee, Florida and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06143228 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore how the presence or absence of directional preference affects movement coordination deficits in individuals suffering from Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD). Patients will undergo assessments at baseline, during treatment, at discharge, and three months post-treatment using various outcome measures, including pain scales and mobility tests. The study hypothesizes that those with a directional preference will show greater improvements in their symptoms compared to those without. The findings could provide insights into more effective management strategies for WAD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 19-70 who have experienced neck pain related to a motor vehicle collision or trauma.

Not a fit: Patients with neck pain of non-cervical origin or those with serious underlying conditions such as malignancy or progressive neurological deficits may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment protocols for patients with whiplash, enhancing their recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on directional preference in WAD, similar studies on movement coordination and treatment outcomes have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 19-70
* Symptom complaints are related to a motor vehicle collision or trauma.
* Pain presents as unilateral or bilateral head/neck, upper back, or arm pain and/or stiffness
* Patient has been previously screened by their MD and received appropriate imaging to rule out the possibility of cervical fracture.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Neck pain is determined to be of non-cervical origin
* Malignancy/infection
* Presence of progressive neurological deficits
* Cranial or cervical vascular disorder
* Substance use or withdrawal
* Acute post cervical surgery
* Psychosis/psychiatric disorder/post-traumatic stress disorder
* Vertigo with nystagmus is present

Where this trial is running

Tallahassee, Florida and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Whiplash Injury of Cervical SpineMuscle WeaknessWhiplash Associated DisordersMovement Coordination DeficitsMcKenzieNeck Pain
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.