While injuries from whiplash are all too apparent for sufferers, it is difficult for physicians to isolate the structural damage in the neck using common 1.5 tesla MRI scanners, the study's lead investigator, Australian National University anatomist Dr Alexandra Webb, said.

But Dr Webb and her team of researchers from ANU, the University of Aarhus in Denmark and Canberra Hospital hope that using a three tesla MRI scanner could aid injury detection.

''We're looking at the joints, ligaments, and bones,'' Dr Webb said.

''X-ray and CT scans don't show as much, but MRIs give you that good look at the soft tissue structure in the neck.''

Most whiplash sufferers are treated with a combination of medication, rehabilitation of the neck and physiotherapy, Dr Webb said.

But the study could lead to more targeted treatment for injuries, which can include neck pain, stiffness and headaches.

''You can't identify what the source of the pain is, so trying to perform treatment means a very generalised approach,'' Dr Webb said.

''We'll be using some specialised research scans of the neck, not just the usual scans.''

The study will investigate 40 people between the ages of 18 and 29, who have sustained a neck injury in a motor vehicle accident within the past three years and compare the results to a control group of 20.

Dr Webb said patients with lingering whiplash injuries contributed to the social and financial costs of the condition.

''No one has been able to find out why this group of people progress to a chronic range of symptoms,'' she said.

The study will also look at patients with acute whiplash injuries received within three weeks.

The pilot study's results are due to be published next year.

To apply as a participant, contact the Canberra Hospital Trauma and Orthopaedic Research Unit on 6244 3701 or 6244 3858.