Adapting the MSK-HQ for paediatric musculoskeletal care: Insights from a national survey and focus group of physiotherapists

BACKGROUND: There is a need for a valid outcome measure of musculoskeletal (MSK) health status in children and young people, for use across MSK clinical pathways. The Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ) is used with adults but is not yet adapted for paediatric settings. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate UK clinicians' views on the relevance of adapting the MSK-HQ for use in paediatric MSK services. METHODS: An anonymous online survey was distributed to clinicians who manage patients aged 8-18 years with MSK conditions, using snowball recruitment through professional networks, pediatric musculoskeletal forums, and social media. An online focus group was conducted with paediatric physiotherapists to explore their views in more depth. RESULTS: A total of 55 paediatric clinicians (54 physiotherapists and 1 podiatrist) participated in the survey. Of these, 76% (n = 42) recognised the value of developing a paediatric-specific MSK-HQ, and 89% (n = 49) agreed that an adapted MSK-HQ would benefit paediatric care and that they would be interested in using it. Ten paediatric physiotherapists attended the focus group and expressed strong endorsement for adapting the MSK-HQ. CONCLUSION: Our findings endorse the adaptation of the MSK-HQ for a paediatric population, and its perceived potential for improving paediatric MSK care. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.