Whiplash
A whiplash neck sprain happens when your head is suddenly jolted backwards and forwards, usually in a car accident. Our physiotherapists assess the joints, muscles and ligaments involved and build a hands-on treatment plan to get your neck moving again.
A whiplash neck sprain occurs when your head is suddenly jolted backwards and forwards in a whip-like movement, usually caused by a motor vehicle accident such as a rear-end collision. These movements generate considerable force, typically moving the neck far beyond its normal range and damaging the delicate supporting structures of the neck. Whiplash is effectively a sprain of the joints in the neck, which physiotherapists refer to as a vertebral dysfunction. It can also result from forceful sporting injuries that place similar stress on the neck joints, ligaments, muscles and discs.
Whiplash neck sprains are common — around two in three people involved in car accidents develop some form of neck pain, with or without other injuries. Many people are surprised when pain sets in some hours after even a minor accident, so it's worth taking any jolt to the neck seriously, even from a low-speed bump. Less commonly, whiplash can also result from everyday mishaps such as a trip or fall.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the neck
- Head feels too heavy for the neck
- Reduced neck movement and stiffness
- Pain into the shoulders and arms
- Tingling in the arms and fingers
- Dizziness, headaches or blurred vision
- Pain on swallowing
- Irritability and difficulty concentrating
Our approach to treatment
Physiotherapy management of whiplash is extremely effective. Care starts with a thorough history along with an orthopaedic, neurological and spinal examination to pinpoint the exact source of your neck pain. As pain settles and stability improves, your physiotherapist will use gentle massage and joint mobilisation to restore neck function and ease nerve pressure, alongside a graded exercise program.
If you're able to support your head and neck, it's important to keep it moving rather than immobilising it in a soft collar — research shows people recover faster when they keep the neck active with regular gentle exercise rather than resting it for long periods. We'll also cover practical advice on posture during your daily routine and using a firm, supportive pillow when sleeping. Whiplash responds very well to physiotherapy, and most people see significant improvement within weeks of starting care.
Evenings and weekends, no problem
Appointments fit your schedule, including late evenings or weekends, with evidence-based care from post-graduate qualified physiotherapists and exercise physiologists — right at your door.
Questions people ask us
Do I need a referral?
Private patients and NDIS participants don't need one. DVA, Medicare or work-injury clients need a GP referral to be covered — we bulk bill DVA, WorkCover and CTP clients.
Which suburbs do you visit?
We cover a large part of North Brisbane and Moreton Bay. Call 1300 895 169 and we'll tell you straight away if we can reach you.
How do I make an appointment?
Use the contact form on our website and a team member will call within 24 hours, or call us directly to book a session.
What are the payment methods?
Cash and card are accepted on the day. NDIS, WorkCover and DVA clients are invoiced directly through their plan manager or case officer.
What equipment do you have?
Our team carries all the equipment needed to deliver a comprehensive service in the comfort of your own home.
What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing you can move freely in.
What happens during a consultation?
A comprehensive assessment and treatment during the session, which may include massage, joint mobilisation and exercise prescription, followed by a detailed home exercise program.
When do I pay?
Either before or after your consultation, whichever is easier for you.
Can I use my private health fund card and just pay the gap?
No — private health rebates need to be claimed online after your invoice is paid. We don't have a health-fund terminal for on-the-spot gap payments.