A survey of knowledge, attitudes, and practices relating to musculoskeletal examination among pediatricians in Maharashtra, India

Aims To explore knowledge, attitudes, and practices relating to musculoskeletal examination (MSKe) in one state of India. Methods Pediatricians from the state of Maharashtra (capital – Mumbai) were invited to complete an 11-item web-based survey. Participation implied consent and the survey was based on a similar UK study. All pediatricians from the state of Maharashtra ( n = 1523) were invited to participate; 223 pediatricians responded (response rate: 14.64%) with variable training in pediatrics and experience. Results Respondents reported similar time devoted within their consultations to management plan, history, and physical examination. Most ( n = 166, 74.44%) had been taught to examine the musculoskeletal system in children ( n = 82, 36.77%) or in both adults and children ( n = 84, 37.67%). However, MSKe was not part of their current routine practice, despite many ( n = 115, 51.57%) deeming this an important part of assessment. The majority ( n = 207, 92.82%) were very confident ( n = 7, 3.14%), or confident in some ( n = 120, 53.81%) or most ( n = 80, 35.87%) aspects of performing a structured MSKe, but were less confident with MSKe compared to other systems. Most ( n = 158, 70.85%) were unaware of pGALS (Pediatric Gait Arms Legs Spine) prior to the survey but many ( n = 204, 91.48%) were supportive of its inclusion within the curriculum for undergraduates and/or postgraduates, and expressed a desire to receive more information. Conclusions Many pediatricians are not confident in MSKe and are less confident compared to other bodily systems. There is need for greater training and awareness about the importance of MSKe at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. As a simple validated clinical skill, there is considerable potential to increase teaching of pGALS and thereby ultimately potentially improve MSKe performance in clinical practice.