18/02/2026
I'm delivering my first Head Neck and Jaw Pain Masterclass in Sydney March 28-29th hosted by Terra Rosa.
https://terrarosa.com.au/.../polyvagal-approach-to-the.../
Day 1 we will unpack Whiplash.
Whiplash is not just mechanical injury — it’s a biopsychophysiological shock that alters autonomic regulation.
The rapid acceleration-deceleration leads to:
Disruption of vestibular and proprioceptive feedback.
Sudden loss of orientation and safety perception.
Activation of primitive defensive reflexes (sympathetic or dorsal vagal).
This moment imprints through neuroception — the body’s unconscious detection of threat or safety (Porges).
Even after structural tissues recover, neuroceptive pathways may continue to interpret normal sensory input as potential danger → chronic pain, tension, or dissociation.
The clinical bias is a polyvagal informed approach, that is, we understand neural and structural correlates.
Whiplash may alter autonomic regulation through persistent nociceptive input, disrupted sensorimotor integration, and brainstem network sensitization.
While direct mechanical effects on vagal nuclei are not supported, shared neuroanatomical pathways provide a plausible basis for interaction between cervical dysfunction, cranial nerve function, and autonomic regulation.
From this perspective I've selected gentler techniques that akin to craniosacral still with myofascial applications to change superficial to deep fascia.
We can do sensitivity mapping using local or distal pressure response for whether the impact is causing central or peripheral sensitisation prior to any application.
We will treat and target key anatomical anchors, including sub occipital myo-dural bridge, cervical facet joints and dorsal root ganglia.
I hope you may join us in March. Day 2 will be TMJ/TMD. More to come on Day 2.
