Whiplash

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the head — most commonly during a rear-end car collision, but it can also occur during contact sports, falls, or any sudden impact.

The rapid acceleration-deceleration motion strains the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the cervical spine. In some cases, it can also affect the discs and nerve structures. Symptoms don't always appear immediately — they may develop over hours or even days following the incident.

Symptoms to watch for

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Pain that worsens with neck movement
• Reduced range of motion in the neck
• Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
• Tenderness across the shoulders and upper back
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms
• Fatigue, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating

How Anne treats whiplash

Anne has experience treating patients with whiplash injuries at all stages — from the acute phase immediately after injury to long-standing cases where symptoms have persisted for months or years.

Her approach is gentle and carefully staged:

• Assessment: A thorough clinical examination to determine the extent of the injury and rule out any serious complications
• Early-stage care: Gentle mobilisation, soft tissue work, and advice on managing symptoms at home
• Rehabilitation: Progressive exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and full range of motion
• Ongoing support: Monitoring recovery and adjusting the treatment plan as you improve

Documentation and insurance

If your whiplash resulted from a road traffic accident, Anne can provide detailed clinical notes and reports suitable for insurance and legal purposes. Proper documentation from the outset helps support any claims process.