Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Curriculum Development in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency: Process,...

Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK US) has become an essential tool in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), prompting growing interest in structured residency training. This study outlines the development and implementation of a formal MSK US curriculum across 2 PM&R residency programs comprising 36 residents. The curriculum committee designed a longitudinal series of 4-hour workshops focused on key anatomic regions, with faculty-led demonstrations, hands-on practice, and structured learning materials. Each workshop utilized 6 ultrasound machines with faculty leading small trainee groups. Five workshops were conducted over one academic year, and resident confidence was assessed before and after each session using standardized surveys. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in self-reported anatomic knowledge, ultrasound principles, and clinical application (all P <0.05). Improvements were consistent across postgraduate training years, reflecting a shared baseline of limited prior exposure. Key logistical challenges included coordinating faculty and ultrasound equipment availability. This curriculum is anticipated to evolve with the introduction of objective assessments, longitudinal tracking, and the integration of senior residents as peer educators. This study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a structured MSK US curriculum in large residency programs and offers a practical framework for institutions aiming to enhance ultrasound education in PM&R training.