Physiotherapists can explain what has happened and why you are stiff and sore. They also give you reassurance that if it is safe to move and to continue to exercise and to continue with daily activities.
Pain relief to allow you to move is very important. This includes painkillers and anti-inflammatories from your GP. Also ice to decrease inflammation, swelling and tenderness, heat to decrease spasm and to improve circulation and tape to support sore muscles or joints.
Physiotherapy also provides advice about your daily activities. What to do and what to avoid. Advice about your car, workstation, pillows, mattresses, handbags, how to lift the baby, housework, etc.
Physiotherapists are the experts on giving you exercises to maintain and gain movement, to stay strong and prevent poor habits. These are specific to each person. They are not only for your neck but also your shoulders and core strength. They are also for your balance and eye movements.These prevent you getting stiffer and sorer and weaker.
Manual therapy is also used if necessary and can be very helpful. However in the early days after a Whiplash a hands-off approach is used.
Relaxation techniques can be helpful for some.
Postural advice can be useful. But moving is better than resting. Active rest means you rest enough to allow the optimum amount of movement. Again your Physiotherapist is the expert here.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help patients return to daily activities in a graded way.
All Physiotherapy treatment is based on research that has been shown to help Whiplash Injury.
