Which WAD level includes neck symptoms with neurological signs such as decreased or absent DTR, weakness, and sensory deficits?

• A. WAD 1
• B. WAD 4
• C. WAD 2
• D. WAD 3

Answer: (D)

In Whiplash Associated Disorders, the presence of neurological signs alongside neck symptoms indicates a neuroinvolvement level rather than a purely musculoskeletal one. Decreased or absent deep tendon reflexes, along with weakness and sensory deficits, point to nerve root or neural tissue involvement, which corresponds to WAD 3. This level is distinguished from WAD 2, which has neck pain with musculoskeletal signs like reduced range of motion or focal tenderness but no neurological deficits, and from WAD 1, which has neck pain with no physical signs. WAD 4 represents fracture or dislocation, not just neurologic symptoms. So the combination of neck symptoms with neuro signs clearly fits WAD 3.