Margit Kooijman

MSU | 67 shoulder complaints, the differences found between both populations might exist but may be of slight importance in daily practice and are probably based on a small number of patients. A second limitation of current study is that we measured stated rather than actual practice. Meaning responding MSU physiotherapists might have given socially acceptable answers, for example on delicate matters such as reimbursement. However, a substantial group indicated not doing their own physical examination when another clinician requests MSU, which is not in line with protocol. It also means that they were required to give estimates, for example on the number of patients they see, use MSU or in which they switch diagnosis. Despite this subjectivity, the results indicate an overall trend towards a positive opinion on the use of MSU. At the same time they show that MSU physiotherapists are aware of disadvantages such as the issue of what to do with conflicting results. Conclusion The results from our questionnaires show that 18% of the physiotherapy practices use MSU, mainly for patients with shoulder complaints and with an emphasis on detecting tissue damage and as an aid for diagnosis. MSU physiotherapists seem enthusiastic and are at the same time aware of its disadvantages.