Improving Undergraduate Musculoskeletal Education: A Continuing Challenge

Excerpt

Musculoskeletal problems are common, accounting for 20% of both primary care and emergency room visits¹; it is estimated that 16% of the North American population has some form of arthritis². The economic burden of musculoskeletal illness is massive, accounting for 1% to 2.5% of the gross national product of Western nations². Therefore, adequate provision of and education in musculoskeletal care is important given the sheer magnitude and burden of this illness affecting patients and society at large.

The report by Oswald, et al in this issue of The Journal identifies current musculoskeletal physical examination (MSK-PE) teaching practices in Canadian undergraduate…