When is physiotherapy recommended for whiplash?

Whiplash can strain muscles, ligaments and other soft tissues around the neck. A physiotherapist can assess movement, posture, muscle control and symptoms, then tailor treatment to your stage of recovery. Care may include gentle mobility work, strengthening, advice about pacing, and exercises for home. Treatment should progress gradually; forcing painful movement can aggravate symptoms.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms are not settling or are interfering with sleep, work, driving or everyday tasks. Keep within comfortable activity, take breaks from prolonged neck positions, and follow the exercises provided. Do not use a collar or begin vigorous neck exercises without clinical advice. Learn more about [Whiplash](/conditions/whiplash/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Seek urgent medical assessment for severe or worsening neck pain after an injury, weakness, numbness, loss of coordination, trouble walking, severe headache, fainting, confusion or changes in bladder or bowel control. These symptoms need medical evaluation before routine rehabilitation.

Ask whether your neck movement and nerve function have been checked, which activities are suitable now, what symptoms should stop an exercise, and when progress should be reviewed.