When is manual therapy recommended for whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forward movement, commonly after a road collision or impact. Symptoms can include neck pain, reduced movement, shoulder discomfort, headache, and sensitivity to activity. A clinician checks the injury history, neck movement, strength, sensation, balance, and signs that require further investigation. Manual therapy may include gentle soft-tissue work or mobilisation. It is intended to help you move more comfortably; it should not replace education, gradual activity, and exercises that restore neck and upper-body control.

Share the date and mechanism of the injury, whether you struck your head, and any dizziness, visual change, tingling, or limb weakness. Follow guidance on gentle neck movement and return to work or driving. Avoid prolonged bed rest and avoid forceful treatment before examination. Use prescribed pain relief only as directed, and tell the clinician if symptoms interfere with sleep, concentration, or normal tasks.

Get urgent medical help after whiplash for worsening weakness or numbness, trouble walking, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, severe headache, vision changes, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Prompt review is also needed for severe midline neck pain, suspected fracture, or symptoms that keep worsening rather than gradually settling.

Has my neck been assessed for fracture or neurological injury? Is gentle manual therapy suitable now? Which exercises should I begin? What activities should I avoid temporarily? Which changes mean I need urgent review?