Abstract
Objectives:To assess the knowledge and confidence of junior doctors and non-specialists in examining and making a diagnosis of patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) diseases.Methods:This was a Cross-sectional study of 121 doctors working in medical clinics at a tertiary hospital between October and December 2019. Data were collected using a questionnaire. Doctor’s awareness regarding different MSK examination methods including gait, arms, leg, spine (GALS), pediatric gait, arms, leg, spine (pGALS) and regional examination of musculoskeletal system (REMS) was noted. Undergraduate teaching of these methods and use in their daily practice was surveyed.Results:Majority of the doctors lacked awareness about different MSK examination techniques. Awareness about GALS, REMS and pGALS was 44.6%, 59.5% and 18.2% respectively. There was significant correlation of GALS/REMS awareness with the undergraduate teaching and doctor’s clinical experience (p-value <0.05). Confidence level of doctors in diagnosing patients with adult MSK pathologies was 55%. Only few doctors were satisfied with their musculoskeletal education (29%).Conclusion:The GALS examination is a useful screening tool for junior doctors and non-specialists in a direct access setting to rule out musculoskeletal problems.
Highlights
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect millions of people around the world
About 10 million people in the UK are suffering from arthritis.[1]
MSK disorders are underdiagnosed in patients with medical problems
Summary
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect millions of people around the world. About 10 million people in the UK are suffering from arthritis.[1] MSK disorders are ranked first in prevalence as the cause of chronic health problems, long term disabilities, and consultations with a health professional. MSK disorders are underdiagnosed in patients with medical problems. MSK conditions affect almost one in five adults.[2] Low back pain, osteoarthritis and soft tissue rheumatism are the main diagnosis.[3] Chronic MSK pain can cause sleep disturbance, fatigue, low mood, limited activity and participation affecting individual’s quality of life.[4]
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