If eye movements are normal in a WAD assessment, the prognosis is most likely to be what?

If eye movements are normal in a WAD assessment, the prognosis is most likely to be what?

• A. Partial recovery
• B. Unknown
• C. Full recovery
• D. No recovery

Answer: (C)

Normal eye movements indicate there’s no cranial nerve or brainstem involvement and no vestibulo-oculomotor disruption. In whiplash-associated disorders, the absence of neuro-ophthalmic signs is a positive prognostic indicator and is typically associated with a quicker, often complete recovery. If eye movements were abnormal, that would raise concern for ongoing neuro involvement and a less favorable or more uncertain course. So when eye movements are normal, full recovery is the most likely outcome.

Normal eye movements indicate there’s no cranial nerve or brainstem involvement and no vestibulo-oculomotor disruption. In whiplash-associated disorders, the absence of neuro-ophthalmic signs is a positive prognostic indicator and is typically associated with a quicker, often complete recovery. If eye movements were abnormal, that would raise concern for ongoing neuro involvement and a less favorable or more uncertain course. So when eye movements are normal, full recovery is the most likely outcome.