What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash refers to neck strain caused by rapid back-and-forth movement of the head. This type of movement may occur during events such as motor vehicle accidents or sudden impacts.

Symptoms may develop shortly after the event or gradually over time.

Individuals May Experience

• Neck pain or stiffness

• Headaches beginning at the base of the skull

• Reduced neck mobility

• Shoulder or upper back tension

• Fatigue in the neck muscles

What Contributes to Whiplash Symptoms?

Factors that may influence symptoms include:

• Muscle strain in the neck

• Joint irritation in the cervical spine

• Protective muscle guarding

• Reduced mobility in surrounding tissues

These factors may affect how the neck moves after injury.

How Manual Therapy May Help

Osteopathic Manual Therapy

Treatment may include:

• Gentle mobilization of cervical joints

• Reducing fascial tension in the neck

• Addressing thoracic spine mobility

• Supporting coordinated movement of the head and spine

Osteopathic care often focuses on restoring mobility in the neck and surrounding tissues.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy rehabilitation may involve:

• Gradual neck mobility exercises

• Strengthening cervical support muscles

• Postural retraining

• Progressive return to activity

These exercises help support recovery of normal neck movement.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy may assist by addressing muscular tension following injury.

Treatment may include:

• Reducing tightness in neck muscles

• Improving circulation in surrounding tissues

• Supporting relaxation of protective muscle guarding

Massage therapy may help relieve muscular tension associated with neck strain.

Book an Assessment

If neck discomfort persists following a sudden injury or accident, our team can assess cervical mobility and guide appropriate care.