Whiplash & Motor Vehicle Accidents

At Hindmarsh and Fitzroy Physiotherapy we see many patients who have been involved in motor vehicle accidents. We treat patients who have suffered whiplash injuries and also provide rehabilitation following back injuries, fractures and other trauma sustained. Our experienced Physios understand the pain, frustration and inconvenience of being involved in a car accident, often not of your own fault.

Patients suffering from a motor vehicle injury are required to be initially assessed by their Doctor who will then organise a referral for physiotherapy as well as any investigations. For Physiotherapy treatment to be covered there are certain criteria and paperwork needs to be completed and claims submitted to receive a claim number.

What happens in Whiplash

Whiplash is used to describe the acceleration-deceleration forces placed upon the neck during a collision and usually refers to a rear end collision. These forces may result in painful injuries to the muscles, ligaments, discs and joints of the neck and other spinal areas. However symptoms and recovery rates can vary considerably between individuals and this is important to keep in mind as you progress through your recovery period.

Different trauma may be experienced with different types of collisions and these too can respond well to Physiotherapy treatment.

After suffering a whiplash injury, patients are mainly concerned about their pain but it is the loss of mobility and motor control that can cause longer term disability. If the injury is complex it takes time to recover, but good early management helps to minimize on-going problems. Research now clearly indicates that early movement and treatment within comfort leads to a much faster and more complete recovery, and that is where our caring and supportive Physiotherapists can help you.

How Physiotherapy can help

Proven and effective treatments for whiplash injuries include relieving headaches, using hands-on techniques to restore normal movement and relieve pain, exercises to regain normal strength and length of muscles and massage to reduce muscle tension. Advice and education along with taping can also help alleviate symptoms.

As your symptoms settle, rehabilitation programs are individually tailored to meet your specific needs, and can involve hydrotherapy, Pilates and gym programs to ensure your full return to function as indicated.

Free Patient Resource WHIPLASH ADVICE

Continuing care

We will also discuss and advise you on your gradual return to normal activity, exercise and work and can arrange work site visits to assess the stresses of your occupation. We recognise the difficulties of coping with ongoing symptoms and will combine our quality treatment with valuable practical advice.

Exercise Physiology

If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident, evidence indicates that an early return to activity is the best treatment for soft tissue injuries.

Our Accredited Exercise Physiologist in conjunction with our Physiotherapists will help in your rehabilitation following motor vehicle accidents.

We provide individual, structured and functional exercise prescription to enhance recovery and capacity for return to lifes’ activities.

Speak with our team to help you overcome any pain or disability – short or long term.

We can help.

Make an Appointment