What is it?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by rapid forward and backward movement of the head, typically in a motor vehicle accident. Symptoms may not appear for 24–48 hours after the incident. Early, active physiotherapy leads to far better outcomes than rest and collar use.
Common causes
- Rear-end vehicle collision (most common)
- Sports impacts (contact sports, diving)
- Falls
- Physical assault
Signs and symptoms
- Neck pain and stiffness (may be delayed 24–48 hours)
- Headaches originating from the base of the skull
- Shoulder and upper back pain
- Dizziness and visual disturbance
- Memory and concentration difficulties in complex cases (WAD Grade III–IV)
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- Early active management — movement is medicine; avoid prolonged collar use
- Cervical joint mobilisation and soft tissue therapy
- Progressive range-of-motion and strengthening exercises
- Vestibular rehabilitation if dizziness is prominent
- Pain education and reassurance — most cases recover fully
What you can do at home
- Apply ice in the first 48 hours; then heat if helpful
- Keep the neck moving gently — avoid the temptation to hold the head still
- Chin tucks and gentle rotation exercises from day 1–2 if pain allows
- Return to normal activities as soon as possible — prolonged rest worsens outcomes
When to visit VPARC
Visit VPARC within 2–3 days of a whiplash injury. Early physiotherapy is the strongest predictor of a good outcome. Don't wait for pain to peak before seeking treatment.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Neck Pain Treatment in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.