Whiplash / Concussion Rehabilitation

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Whiplash and concussion injuries often occur together during motor vehicle collisions, sports impacts, or falls. Whiplash involves rapid acceleration–deceleration of the neck, causing irritation to the joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) resulting from sudden movement of the brain inside the skull.

Both conditions can lead to physical, cognitive, and neurological symptoms. Early physiotherapy significantly improves recovery and reduces the risk of long‑term complications.

Whiplash affects multiple structures in the cervical spine:

• Facet joints
• Intervertebral discs
• Ligaments and joint capsules
• Deep stabilizing muscles
• Nerve roots
• Upper thoracic and rib joints

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches (often at the base of the skull)
• Shoulder or upper‑back pain
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Difficulty turning the head
• Radiating arm pain or numbness

A concussion disrupts normal brain function due to rapid movement or impact. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over hours to days.

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
• Visual disturbances
• Fatigue or irritability
• Feeling “foggy” or slowed down

hysiotherapy provides targeted treatment for both cervical spine dysfunction and concussion‑related symptoms. Recovery is most successful when both components are addressed together.

• Manual therapy to restore cervical joint mobility
• Joint mobilization for stiffness and pain
• Vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness and balance issues
• Visual–oculomotor retraining for eye‑tracking and focus problems
• Cervical neuromuscular training to restore deep neck stability
• Postural and movement correction to reduce strain
• Graded return‑to‑activity protocols for safe progression
• Education on rest, pacing, and symptom management

Your physiotherapist will perform:

• Cervical spine mobility and stability testing
• Neurological screening (reflexes, sensation, strength)
• Concussion symptom evaluation
• Vestibular and balance testing
• Visual and oculomotor assessment
• Cognitive and functional screening
• Review of imaging or medical reports if available
• A personalized rehabilitation plan based on your symptoms and daily demands

Book an assessment if you experience:

• Neck pain or stiffness after an accident
• Headaches, dizziness, or visual changes
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling “foggy”
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Radiating arm pain or numbness

Prompt treatment prevents long‑term complications and supports full recovery.