Current and prospective use of musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound imaging at chiropractic teaching institutions: A worldwide survey of diagnostic imaging staff

Abstract

Objective
The purpose of this study was to survey the use of musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound imaging (MSK-DUSI) at chiropractic educational programs worldwide and to elicit opinions of academic diagnostic imaging staff of its prospective use at their teaching institutions.

Methods
An electronic questionnaire was delivered in 2014 using SurveyMonkey and notifications were disseminated by e-mail to 127 diagnostic imaging staff at chiropractic programs worldwide. The questionnaire consisted of 27 items using multiple-choice, Likert-type, and open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics were used for basic demographic data and the results of the numerical scales used in each item.

Results
Fifty-nine respondents (46.5%) from 24 (24/41) chiropractic programs returned questionnaires. The reported use of MSK-DUSI at chiropractic programs is low (n = 5/24); however, respondents from 9 institutions stated that it is planned to be implemented. Few respondents stated they had formal MSK-DUSI qualifications (4/59); however, 7 respondents stated they were in the process of becoming certified. Most respondents expressed an interest in the prospect of incorporating MSK-DUSI at their chiropractic program. Sixty-five percent stated that chiropractic programs should provide MSK-DUSI training to chiropractic students, and 75% of respondents stated that chiropractic programs should be providing accredited postgraduate MSK-DUSI courses.

Conclusions
The current use of MSK-DUSI among chiropractic programs that responded to this survey is low. The opinions of diagnostic imaging staff who responded suggest a positive attitude to its use and possible growth in its use if foundational work, including gaining funding, accreditation, and acceptance of within the scope of chiropractic practice, is undertaken.