Whiplash: North Beach Physiotherapy

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by rapid forward-and-back movement of the head, most commonly from rear-end car accidents, but also from contact sport, falls, or any sudden impact. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over hours and days. Early, active physiotherapy is the recommended approach for reducing the risk of ongoing neck pain after whiplash, and the treatment approach matters.

Common Whiplash Symptoms

• Neck pain and stiffness, often worse the day after the accident
• Reduced range of motion in the neck
• Headaches, usually starting at the base of the skull
• Shoulder, upper back or arm pain
• Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands
• Dizziness or balance disturbance
• Difficulty concentrating, fatigue, sleep disturbance

How We Treat Whiplash

Early assessment. A thorough cervical spine examination, including neurological screening, vestibular and oculomotor assessment where indicated. We rule out red flags and confirm that conservative management is appropriate.

Active early management. Prolonged rest and immobilisation are not recommended for whiplash recovery. We get you moving early: gentle range of motion exercises, postural work, and pain management strategies.

Manual therapy. Joint mobilisation, soft tissue work, and dry needling to reduce pain, restore movement, and address protective muscle tension.

Progressive strengthening. The deep neck flexors, scapular stabilisers and upper back muscles need targeted strengthening as you recover, both to support healing and to reduce long-term recurrence risk.

Education and reassurance. Understanding what whiplash is, what your scan does and doesn't mean, and what to expect through recovery has a measurable effect on outcomes. We take the time.

Insurance & ICWA

If your whiplash resulted from a motor vehicle accident in WA, treatment may be covered under your Insurance Commission of Western Australia (ICWA) claim. Bring your claim number to your appointment and we'll handle direct billing where applicable. If you're unsure, call us. We'll talk you through it.

When to See a Physio

• You've been in a motor vehicle accident, regardless of how minor it felt
• Neck pain or stiffness that started within 24–48 hours of an impact
• Headaches following an accident or collision-sport hit
• Arm tingling, dizziness, or visual disturbance following neck trauma

Earlier assessment is generally recommended, even if symptoms feel mild, both for your recovery and for any insurance documentation you may need.