124 - Integrating Physiatry into Simulation-Based Medical Education: A Pilot Program on Musculoskeletal Knee Pain

Despite its clinical prevalence, many medical school curricula lack sufficient education in musculoskeletal pain, resulting in graduates with limited proficiency in this area. This study aimed to evaluate whether a multimodal hands-on simulation and ultrasound-based educational program significantly improved fourth-year medical students’ clinical and practical knowledge of knee pain.

Design:

The two-part program included an interactive lecture addressing the physiatrist's role, hip and knee joint anatomy, common pathologies, and evaluation and treatment modalities, followed by small-group, hands-on knee ultrasound and knee injection/aspiration simulator model stations. Outcomes were assessed through 14-item pre- and post-program student questionnaires on relevant clinical knowledge and confidence with program content.

Results:

Sixty-one students were included in the final analysis, with significance determined using a paired t-test (α = 0.05). Significant improvements were observed across multiple domains including knowledge of knee joint anatomy and relevant interventional pain modalities, clinical evaluation and management of knee pain, patient counseling, and belief in positive program impact (p < 0.001). Students reported significantly increased satisfaction with the quantity (p = 0.022) and quality (p = 0.009) of their musculoskeletal education. While belief in the relevance of musculoskeletal education across specialties did not increase significantly (p = 0.366), understanding the physiatrist’s role within the wider healthcare system did (p < 0.001). Understanding of the indications, goals, and procedure of corticosteroid knee injections, along with confidence in related patient communication, most notably improved (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

A multimodal, hands-on educational program can significantly improve students’ knowledge and clinical skills related to musculoskeletal knee pain, while also potentially improving future multi-specialty communication. This program’s success and participant feedback support implementing similar educational interventions in medical school curricula. Future recommendations include expanding the program to address additional joint pain pathologies, providing earlier and more frequent hands-on educational opportunities, and standardizing and broadening musculoskeletal education.