Physiotherapy FAQ: Road Traffic Injuries

The neck is the main area of concern following a road traffic injury, although other areas of the body may be affected.

A whiplash injury is usually one where the neck is thrown rapidly forward and back. This may cause injury to the soft tissues, the small joints of the neck and spasm in the surrounding muscles. More information on these structures can be read in the appropriate sections. Unfortunately there is no one specific injury and each incident may be different making general advice difficult. In the majority of accidents there is no lasting damage, despite the adverts we see on TV. The latest evidence shows that it is better to remain as active as possible, the days of using a collar and bed rest are over! If pain continues or gets worse, then it is best to seek advice from a physiotherapist to ensure that the right exercises and advice can be given