Knowledge in managing musculoskeletal conditions and educational preparation of physical therapists in the uniformed services

The purpose of this study was to describe knowledge in managing musculoskeletal conditions among physical therapists in the uniformed services based on their educational background and preparation. A cross-sectional design was used. A total of 182 physical therapists in the uniformed services completed a standardized examination that assesses knowledge in managing musculoskeletal conditions. Physical therapists in the uniformed services who graduated from the U.S. Army-Baylor Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy or had attended a specific continuing medical education course that emphasizes the management of musculoskeletal conditions achieved higher scores and passing rates than their colleagues who had not. Compared with previously published data, physical therapists in the uniformed services demonstrated higher scores than medical students, physician interns and residents, active duty military physicians, and all physician specialists except for orthopedists. Physical therapists in the uniformed services have the requisite knowledge to provide direct access for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. These data may have implications for health and public policy decisions within the military health care system related to the utilization and educational preparation of physical therapists in the uniformed services.