Whiplash is a type of neck injury that commonly occurs after motor vehicle accidents, but can also happen with sports injuries, falls or sudden jolts to the head and neck. Symptoms can range from mild stiffness to more complex pain, headaches and reduced movement.
At Midland Chiropractic Care, we provide careful, evidence-based assessment and management of whiplash and neck injuries, with a strong focus on safety, reassurance and gradual return to normal activity.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) describe a range of symptoms that can occur after the neck is suddenly forced into rapid movement, usually forwards and backwards.
Common symptoms include:
Neck pain and stiffness
Reduced neck movement
Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
Upper back or shoulder pain
Muscle tightness or spasm
Occasionally dizziness, fatigue or difficulty concentrating
Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over the hours and days following an incident.
Why Early, Gentle Management Matters
Many people with whiplash recover well over time, especially when they receive good information, stay as active as is comfortable, and follow an appropriate treatment plan. Prolonged rest or fear of movement can sometimes slow recovery.
Our approach focuses on:
Ruling out concerning features (risk stratification)
Providing clear explanations and reassurance
Encouraging gradual, safe movement
Supporting your day-to-day function and return to normal activities
Your Whiplash Assessment
Your chiropractor will take a careful and structured history of:
How the injury occurred
The timeline of your symptoms
Any red-flag features (such as severe headache, neurological symptoms or feeling very unwell)
If there are signs that imaging or medical review is needed, we’ll explain this clearly and assist with referral pathways.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Whiplash-Related Neck Pain
Once it’s safe to do so, treatment may include:
Gentle manual therapy and soft-tissue techniques to reduce muscle tension and pain
Carefully progressed mobilisation and, when appropriate, adjustments to improve neck and upper back movement
Guided exercises for mobility, posture and strength
Education on pacing, activity modification and expected recovery
Rehabilitation programs to support return to work, sport and daily life
We always tailor care to your symptoms, stage of recovery and comfort level.
Motor Vehicle Accident and Insurance-Related Injuries
If your whiplash occurred as part of a motor vehicle accident, you may be covered under insurance schemes. We are experienced in working with these cases, providing clear documentation and treatment plans to support your recovery.
If needed, we can also communicate with your GP or other health providers as part of a team-based approach.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
You should seek urgent medical care if, after a neck injury, you notice:
Severe or worsening headache
Loss of consciousness at the time of injury
Loss of balance, slurred speech or confusion
Weakness, numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
Difficulty walking or controlling movements
Problems with vision or swallowing
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to be checked.
Book Your Whiplash Assessment
If you’ve recently experienced a neck injury or whiplash and are unsure what to do next, a thorough assessment can provide clarity, reassurance and a structured plan.
