The motor vehicle accident in family practice.

As family physicians, we are often asked to prepare medico-legal reports on behalf of our patients who have sustained personal injuries. Cervical myofascial injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents are by far the most common of all injuries seen in this setting. An awareness of the problem of cervical whiplash is essential. This article reviews the current literature on cervical whiplash injuries and provides a guide for the preparation of a medico-legal report as it applies to the MVA patient in family practice.