Whiplash Treatment
The Headache, Neck and Jaw Clinic provides effective treatment for whiplash that’s designed to reduce pain and support your recovery.
Whiplash Physiotherapy Brisbane
We understand that whiplash can turn your life upside down. One moment you’re driving to work, the next you’re dealing with debilitating neck pain that affects everything from playing with your kids to getting a good night’s sleep. That’s why we’re committed to getting you back to the life you love as quickly as possible!
As Brisbane’s whiplash recovery specialists, we’re passionate about helping you get back to living pain-free, and our expert physiotherapists have successfully treated hundreds of whiplash patients across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when your head moves backward and then forward rapidly (similar to the motion of someone cracking a whip). These extreme forces may result in injuries to bony or soft tissue, including discs, ligaments, tendons, neck muscles and nerve roots.
Why Choose HNJ Clinic For Whiplash Recovery?
Whiplash presents in many ways. We understand that the pain and stiffness can be debilitating, but our whiplash treatments can help you find relief.
Our physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat whiplash injuries, pain, and symptoms. We use research-based physiotherapy techniques that reduce pain, improve mobility and aid your recovery.
As a locally owned Queensland clinic, we understand the unique needs of Brisbane patients dealing with whiplash injuries. Whether you’ve been in a car accident on the M1 or experienced a sports injury at your local park, we’re here to help you recover.
If you’re suffering from whiplash, book an appointment with our expert physiotherapists. We can tailor a treatment program to help you manage symptoms and get your life back to normal.
Common Whiplash Symptoms
You may not experience whiplash symptoms immediately after your accident. Adrenaline or inflammation can mask pain, meaning whiplash symptoms might show up hours or days later. Most people experience whiplash symptoms within 24–48 hours, which is why early assessment is crucial – even if you feel okay immediately after impact.
- Headaches
- Loss of motion in the neck
- Pain in the shoulders
- Pain between the shoulder blades
- Pain in one or both arms
- Weakness in the arms
- Fatigue
- Vision problems
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Poor concentration or memory
- Neck pain/stiffness
- Tenderness in the muscles
Physiotherapy for Whiplash
Dealing with whiplash can be debilitating and frustrating, keeping you from enjoying your hobbies, your work, or even just comfortable day-to-day life.
Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for whiplash, especially when it begins soon after the injury occurs. The physiotherapists at the Headache, Neck and Jaw Clinic use a variety of techniques to relieve pain, treat your injuries, and manage the recovery process. These include:
- Passive joint mobilisation to strengthen and stretch the soft tissue in your neck, spine and shoulders.
- Spinal manipulation to treat dysfunctional joints in your neck and spine, reducing pain and strengthening your spinal joints.
- Exercises that relieve muscle tension, improve your posture, strengthen muscles and ligaments, and reduce pain.
- Dry needling or laser treatment for pain relief and to help with stiffness.
We design a treatment plan based on the severity of your injury and symptoms. We’ll explain our treatment plan in detail and collaborate with you on what you need to do. If future treatments are required, we’ll set out a program of appointments and exercises that can help you heal and strengthen your neck.
What to Expect in Your First Week of Whiplash Treatment
Our physiotherapists always begin with a detailed assessment to understand how the injury is affecting your neck, shoulders, and posture. We understand that everyone’s level of pain and symptoms are different, and we want to get the best picture to create your personalised treatment plan.
Early treatment often includes gentle spinal manipulation and guided mobility exercises. The goal is to improve range of motion without aggravating your symptoms. We’ll also help you understand what movements are safe and what to avoid once you leave our clinic.
While symptoms may not disappear overnight, most people notice improved comfort and confidence in movement within the first few sessions, setting a strong foundation for ongoing recovery.
What To Expect From Your Assessment
Comprehensive Examination
We provide a comprehensive examination that covers your injury, symptoms and how whiplash is affecting you.
Hands-On Assessment
Our physiotherapists assess your injury to identify the source of your pain and how we can treat the underlying issue.
Symptom Relief
We’ll use a combination of exercises, joint manipulation and dry needling to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Patient Education
Education is an important part of treating whiplash. We can answer any questions and help manage your recovery.
Reach Out To Us!
Get in touch with us today for more information on our services or to make an appointment with our friendly team.
Ready To Book Online?
Don’t suffer in silence – with 8 convenient locations around Brisbane and the Gold Coast, expert whiplash treatment is close to you, and our team’s ready to get started.
Book online with the Headache, Neck and Jaw Clinic if you’re ready to find relief from the pain and symptoms of whiplash and other neck injuries.
Frequently Asked Whiplash Questions
It is best to begin physiotherapy as soon as possible after a car accident, even if symptoms feel mild. Pain and stiffness can develop hours or days after the incident, but starting treatment early often reduces recovery time and lowers the risk of persistent pain. It also provides documentation of your injury, which can be helpful for insurance or medical reporting if required.
Whiplash and neck strain share similar symptoms, but they differ in how the injury occurs. Whiplash is typically caused by a sudden acceleration and deceleration of the head, most commonly during a car accident. A neck strain, on the other hand, usually develops from overuse, poor posture, or awkward sleeping positions. It tends to come on gradually rather than from a single traumatic event.
Physiotherapy can assist with neck pain, stiffness, headaches, shoulder tension, jaw discomfort, dizziness, and reduced range of movement following a whiplash injury.
Yes. Whiplash can place strain on the muscles and joints around the neck and jaw, which may contribute to headaches or jaw tension. Treatment can address these connected areas.
Treatment is designed to be gentle, especially in the early stages. Some mild soreness can occur as movement returns, but we’ll work within your comfort level.
The number of sessions depends on the severity of your injury and how your body responds to treatment. Our physiotherapists will outline a tailored plan after your initial assessment.