Okuläre d ysfunktionen bei W ad: Behandlungs möglichkeiten und e ffekte neuromuskulo skelettaler t herapie

Whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) are a common symptom complex. It can cause a variety of acute and chronic symptoms in various tissue types and body regions although the underlying mechanisms are not exactly known. This article deals with the question whether ocular dysfunctions also occur in WAD patients and if so which dysfunctions are concerned and whether neuromusculoskeletal therapy – especially manual therapy in the cervico-cranial region – can positively influence these dysfunctions. The articles found by using a literature research in several databases support the conclusion that various ocular dysfunctions may occur related to WAD. To date there is poor evidence concerning the effects of neuromuscular therapy on ocular dysfunctions of WAD patients. Therefore only a careful recommendation for the use of neuromuscular physiotherapy in the assessment and treatment of ocular dysfunctions in WAD patients can be given. Treatment may include aspects such as balance, head-eye-coordination, movement and body sense, pain management and cervical range of motion exercises.