What mechanism of injury (MOI) is associated with whiplash?

Whiplash is primarily caused by rapid acceleration and deceleration forces, which typically occur in rear-end motor vehicle collisions. In these instances, the sudden movement of the vehicle causes the head to be thrust forward and then rapidly backward, resulting in strain on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. This mechanism of injury can lead to a variety of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Other mechanisms of injury listed, such as direct impact to the head, compression injuries, and falls from a height, do not accurately describe the forces involved in whiplash. Direct impact to the head might result in concussions or skull fractures, compression injuries usually involve crushing forces that affect the spine, while falls from a height can result in different kinds of injuries, such as fractures or traumatic brain injuries, but do not replicate the specific motion and physiological response characteristic of whiplash.