Neck pain and whiplash

Neck pain or whiplash associated disorders may require exercises and massage

How can physiotherapy help with neck pain and whiplash?

Physiotherapists are highly skilled at supporting people with neck pain. They provide advice and education on exercises for neck pain,tips on how to manage neck pain and preventing further problems.

They also use other treatments such as manual therapy and acupuncture. Physios play a key role in promoting active healthy lifestyles and preventing recurrent neck pain.

What will happen when I see a physiotherapist?

Your first session with a physiotherapist will usually include a detailed assessment. Everything you tell the physiotherapist will be kept confidential. They may ask you questions about your: 

• current symptoms
• medical history
• health, fitness levels and lifestyle

The physiotherapist will assess how your neck is working and how the problem is affecting your life. They will check your posture, watch how you move and they also may need to feel your neck and upper back.

Your physio may ask you to remove some clothing so that they can have a look at your neck. It’s a good idea to wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing to your appointment.

The physio will usually discuss and agree achievable goals and a suitable treatment programme for you.

They will arrange any follow-up appointments, and link closely with other healthcare professionals who may be involved in your treatment.

The physiotherapist will explain how you can manage neck pain, contribute to your own recovery and prevent persistent neck pain. Your consultation is likely to include:

• advice about neck exercises to do at home

• advice on how to improve your posture
• education on how to manage your long-term neck problems and how to prevent neck pain in the future
• lifestyle advice and tips to help you manage neck pain, including activities you should avoid
• manual therapy, such as joint mobilisation or manipulation
• soft tissue techniques such as massage for short-term pain relief

It may also include:

• acupuncture if your physio thinks this might help you
• nerve mobilisation if you have pain going down your arms
• applying heat or cold to the affected area
• relaxation techniques

Where can I get more information on physiotherapy and neck pain?

Clinical guidelines for physiotherapy and managing whiplash are available from the CSP. 

• Clinical guidelines for the management of whiplash

Physiotherapists with a particular interest in neck pain and related treatment techniques might be members of a Professional Network.

Many physiotherapists who belong to the Neuromusculoskeletal Alliance of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy have advanced training and additional qualifications relevant to the management of neck pain. For more information follow the links below:

• Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists
• Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Orthopaedic Medicine and Injection Therapy
• Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports Medicine
• Association of Orthopaedic Chartered Physiotherapists
• British Association of Hand Therapists
• Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists
• McKenzie Institute of Mechanical Diagnosis & Therapy Practitioners
• The Physiotherapy Pain Association (for physiotherapists)
• Physiotherapy Research Society

Meanwhile, how can I help myself and find useful advice?

Neck pain and whiplash: Further links and resources

Patient info UK

• Support groups, useful web sites, videos, books 
• Leaflets on health conditions and disabilities
• Patient info UK

NHS Direct (England) 

• 24/7 information and advice 
• Telephone: 0845 4647 
• NHS Direct (England) website

NHS 24 (Scotland)

• 24/7 information and advice
• Telephone: 08454 24 24 24 
• NHS 24 (Scotland) website

NHS Direct (Wales) (Galw Iechyd Cymru)

• Provides information in English and Welsh
• Telephone: 0845 4647
• NHS Direct (Wales) website