Disturbed Eye Movements after Whiplash Due to Injuries to the Posture Control System

Abstract

Self-reports after whiplash often indicate associations with vertigo and reading problems. Neuropsychological and otoneurological tests were applied to a group of whiplash patients (n =26) and to a carefully matched control group. The whiplash group deviated from the control group on measures of eye movements during reading, on smooth pursuit eye movements with the head in normal position, and with the body turned to the left or to the right. Clinical, caloric, and neurophysiological tests showed no injury to the vestibular system or to the CNS. Test results suggest that injuries to the neck due to whiplash can cause distortion of the posture control system as a result of disorganized neck proprioceptive activity.