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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

A Novel Application of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Imaging
Published on: September 17, 2013
Deficiencies in the education of musculoskeletal medicine in Ireland
J M Queally1, P D Kiely, M J Shelly
1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital, Finglas, Dublin 11, Ireland. josephqueally@gmail.com
Background:
Basic competency in musculoskeletal medicine is essential for many specialties being particularly relevant to primary care.
Aim:
The purpose of this study was to objectively assess the adequacy of musculoskeletal education at multiple levels of medical training from undergraduate level to primary care.
Methods:
A previously validated musculoskeletal examination was administered to 303 volunteers consisting of medical students, orthopaedic specialist registrars, general practice trainees and general practitioners.
Results:
Forty (71%) general practitioners and 74 (71.8%) general practice trainees failed to obtain the passing score of 70. Sixty-three (87.5%) medical students who had completed an intensive 1-week long course in musculoskeletal medicine failed the examination. The pass rate improved significantly for general practitioners who had completed a postgraduate rotation in musculoskeletal medicine (47.8 vs 18.1%, P < 0.01).
Conclusions:
These findings suggest that training in musculoskeletal medicine is inadequate at multiple levels of medical education with reform urgently required.
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