Disease-specific knowledge and differential diagnostic skill in clinical care

Back and neck pain are among the most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints, imposing a substantial individual and societal burden on healthcare systems. Effective management requires adequate education, strong clinical decision-making skills, and accurate interpretation of red flags. This narrative literature review explores the educational, diagnostic, and decision-making aspects of back and neck pain among laypeople, healthcare students, and professionals. It aims to synthesize findings from studies assessing disease-specific knowledge to emphasize how targeted educational programs can enhance students' understanding and, consequently, improve their future clinical practice.

A thematic analysis of relevant international literature published between 2000 and 2025 was conducted. The review focused on studies examining disease-specific knowledge, differential diagnostic skills, psychosocial factors, and the interpretation of red flags. Findings were organized by target group and summarized narratively.

Across all target groups, substantial gaps were identified in disease-specific knowledge, differential diagnostic competencies, and clinical decision-making skills. While educational interventions demonstra-ted po-sitive effects on knowledge levels and at- titudes, their implementation remains incon- sistent.

Structured, targeted educational programs introduced early in healthcare training can significantly enhance students' disease-specific knowledge. Strengthening differential diagnostic skills, improving red flag interpretation, and integrating evidence-based guidelines are essential for promoting safe, effective, and standardized clinical practice.