Physiotherapy for Whiplash Recovery

Physiotherapy is often one of the first lines of treatment recommended after an MVA. At Encompass Sports Therapy, our physiotherapists are skilled at managing WAD and related soft tissue injuries, providing evidence-based care designed around your specific symptoms, timeline, and goals.

What to Expect from Physiotherapy After a Car Accident

1. Thorough Assessment

Your physiotherapist will begin with a detailed review of your accident, symptoms, past injuries, and how pain affects your day-to-day life. This includes assessments of:

• Neck and spine mobility
• Muscle tone and tenderness
• Neurological function (reflexes, sensation, strength)
• Postural alignment and movement patterns

2. Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques help restore joint mobility, release muscle tension, and promote circulation. Manual therapy may include:

• Gentle joint mobilizations of the cervical spine
• Soft tissue release for the neck, shoulders, and upper back
• Myofascial work or trigger point therapy

These techniques not only relieve pain but also support natural healing.

3. Targeted Exercise Programs

Controlled movement is essential to recovery. Your physiotherapist will design a personalized plan including:

• Range-of-motion exercises for the neck and upper back
• Progressive strengthening of postural and core muscles
• Stability and proprioception exercises
• Aerobic conditioning to aid in energy and mood

You’ll be guided through these movements one-on-one to ensure proper form and gradual progress.

4. Education and Support

Many clients feel unsure about how much to move or rest after an accident. We’ll help you:

• Understand pain science and what your symptoms mean
• Avoid aggravating positions without fearing movement
• Learn self-management tools for flare-ups
• Build confidence to return to regular activities

Chiropractic Care for Whiplash and MVA Injuries

Chiropractors play a valuable role in managing mechanical dysfunction and nervous system regulation after trauma. At Encompass Sports Therapy, our chiropractors assess how the accident has affected your spinal alignment, joint function, and overall movement quality.

Chiropractic Treatment May Include:

1. Spinal Adjustments

If appropriate and safe, gentle spinal manipulation may help restore motion to restricted joints in the neck or back. Chiropractic adjustments are always customized to your comfort level and injury stage.

2. Mobilization and Stretching

Not all chiropractic care involves “cracking” techniques. Our chiropractors also use lower-force mobilizations, assisted stretching, and active release methods to help reduce pain and restore motion.

3. Posture and Movement Correction

Many accident survivors develop protective movement habits—like stiffening the shoulders or avoiding neck rotation. Chiropractors assess and correct these compensations to reduce strain and prevent further problems.

4. Collaborative Care with Physiotherapy

Our chiropractors and physiotherapists communicate regularly to ensure your treatment is integrated. You may alternate between providers or see both, depending on your goals and recovery stage.

Other Symptoms We Commonly Address

Accident-related injuries are rarely limited to one area. Our team is equipped to treat related concerns such as:

• Shoulder impingement or strain
• Lower back pain from seatbelt force
• Jaw (TMJ) dysfunction from impact or clenching
• Post-concussion symptoms like headaches, fogginess, or dizziness

If needed, we can refer you to additional services such as vestibular physiotherapy, massage therapy, or psychological support.

Navigating Insurance and Claims After an Accident

In Alberta, if you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident, you’re entitled to treatment coverage under the Automobile Accident Insurance Benefits (AAIB) program. We understand that paperwork can be overwhelming when you’re not feeling well.

At Encompass Sports Therapy:

• We direct bill your auto insurance provider
• We help you complete necessary forms, including AB-1 and AB-2
• We coordinate with your doctor if medical referral is needed
• We ensure your care aligns with protocol limits while advocating for extensions if needed

We’ve supported hundreds of patients through this process and are happy to guide you through each step.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Waiting too long to address whiplash or MVA injuries can result in:

• Prolonged pain
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Poor movement habits
• Deconditioning
• Increased anxiety around activity

The earlier you seek physiotherapy or chiropractic care, the better your chances of preventing chronic issues and regaining full function.

What Makes Encompass Sports Therapy Different?

We offer:

• One-on-one, private appointments—you’re never double-booked
• Evening and weekend availability
• All-in-one pricing—you’ll never pay extra for different services
• Compassionate, collaborative care—we listen and adapt to your needs
• Direct billing for auto insurance and extended health benefits

Whether your goal is to return to work, resume sport, or simply feel like yourself again, our team is here to help.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Every MVA is different. So is every recovery. But at Encompass Sports Therapy, you’ll never be treated like a number. We work with you, not just on you—creating a plan that respects your body, your timeline, and your goals.

If you’ve recently been in a car accident—or if you’re still dealing with symptoms from a past one—don’t wait. Let’s start your recovery journey today.

Book your post-accident assessment today at Bridgeland, Coach Hill, or Cranston. Visit www.encompasscalgary.com to get started.