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Introduction. The Burley Readiness Examination (BRE) for Musculoskeletal (MSK) Imaging Competency assesses physical therapists' baseline MSK imaging competency. Establishing its reliability is essential to its value in determining MSK imaging competency. The purpose of this study was to test the reliability of the BRE for MSK Imaging Competency among physical therapists (PTs) with varying levels of training and education. Review of Literature. Previous literature supports PTs' utility concerning diagnostic imaging; however, no studies directly measure their competency. With PTs expanding their practice scope and professional PT education programs, increasing their MSK imaging instruction, assessing competency becomes strategic in determining the future of MSK education and training. Subjects. One hundred twenty-three United States licensed PTs completed the BRE. Methods. Physical therapists completed the BRE through an online survey platform. Point biserial correlation (rpb) was calculated for each examination question. Final analyses were based on 140 examination questions. Examination scores were compared using independent sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance. Chi-square tests and odds ratios (ORs) assessed the relationship of a passing examination score ($75%) and the type of training. Reliability of the BRE was assessed using Cronbach's alpha (a). Results. Mean overall examination score was 75.89 6 8.56%. Seventy PTs (56.9%) obtained a passing score. Physical therapists with additional MSK imaging training, board certification, and residency or fellowship training scored significantly higher (P < .001) compared with those with only entry-level PT program education. Physical therapists with additional MSK imaging training scored significantly higher (X=81.07% 6 8.93%) and were almost 5 times (OR = 4.74, 95% CI [1.95-11.50]) as likely to achieve a passing score than those without. The BRE demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach's a = 0.874). Discussion and Conclusions. The BRE was reliable, consistently identifying higher examination scores among those with increased MSK imaging training. Training in MSK imaging influenced competency more than other factors. The BRE may be of analytical value to PT professional and postprofessional programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine and compare the reliability and efficiency of various methods of leg-length measurement. Methods: A total of 88 leg-lengths were measured among 50 subjects (79%–84% female, mean age = 30–33 years). Leg-lengths were measured in both supine and standing positions using multiple devices, including a tape measure, a LASER distance meter, and diagnostic ultrasound. Results: All methods of leg-length measurement using the middle of the femoral head as a reference point, identified via ultrasound, demonstrated excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.95–1.00). Measurements performed in supine, using the anterior superior iliac spine as a reference point, with a tape measure, demonstrated good-to-excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.86–0.95, standard error of the measurement = 16.1–19.9 cm). Standing measurements using the anterior superior iliac spine as a reference point, using a tape measure, demonstrated fair-to-excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.71–0.95). Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided landmark identification appear to be a more reliable method compared to palpation of the anterior superior iliac spine for measurement of leg-length using clinical tools. When coupled with ultrasound guidance, a hand-held LASER distance meter/pitch locator apparatus or a retractable tape measure appears to be acceptable alternatives to a fixed LASER distance meter on a linear actuator for leg-length measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]