Clinical assessment of patients with musculoskeletal conditions
Resources for diagnostic skills
We offer a range of clinical assessment resources designed to help practitioners build confidence in diagnostic skills.
These resources are essential for developing a strong foundational knowledge in musculoskeletal clinical assessments, with a focus on effective history taking and physical examination.
We also have instructional videos for GALS (Gait, Arms, Legs, and Spine) and REMS (Regional Examination of the Musculoskeletal System), along with the paediatric versions, pGALS and pREMS.
In addition, our clinical assessment guides serve as a practical tool to help you confidently perform thorough examinations on both adults and children, equipping you with the skills needed for your practice.
Introduction to musculoskeletal assessment
Competent history taking and examination are the key to making an accurate diagnosis and assessment of a patient dealing with joint problems.
The musculoskeletal history
History taking is an important skill for doctors or practitioners - achieved with regular practice. Learn the four important areas for musculoskeletal history.
The musculoskeletal examination: GALS including videos
This video tutorial is for GALS screening examination (gait, arms, legs and spine). It's 1–2 minutes and detects abnormalities of the musculoskeletal system.
The musculoskeletal examination: REMS including videos
REMS (regional examination of the musculoskeletal system) is a detailed examination carried out after an abnormality is detected. Learn the method with videos.
Investigations in musculoskeletal assessment
Imaging of bones and joints, blood tests and synovial fluid analysis are the three main types of investigations which can be useful in assessing a patient’s joint problems. This section provides further detail on each of these.
Musculoskeletal clinical findings in patients
A series of instructional videos showing how to put the REMS and GALS musculoskeletal screening into practice.
Musculoskeletal Decision Support Tools
Our NICE endorsed decision support tools are designed to support and guide people in discussing treatment options with their healthcare professionals.
Guide to the clinical assessment of patients with MSK (PDF version)
Download the PDF version of the clinical assessment guide.
Download this guideWelsh version of Guide to the clinical assessment of patients with MSK (PDF)
Download the Welsh PDF version of the clinical assessment guide.
Download this guide