Title: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Benefits of POCUS in Assessing Musculoskeletal Pain in Primary Care Settings

Background: Traditionally, when patients present with musculoskeletal pain in primary care settings, they are prescribed analgesics and possibly an X-ray to diagnose and treat the pain. It is only if the pain persists that other measures are taken, such as further imaging and referrals to pain management. Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is a cheap and effective diagnostic tool that is often used in the ER to diagnose musculoskeletal pain to efficiently treat patients in a timely manner.

Aim (goal or objective): The goal is to examine the diagnostic and therapeutic benefits of POCUS in evaluating musculoskeletal pain within primary care settings, compared to traditional imaging or clinical-only approaches.

Methods/Intervention: We conducted a literature-based review from PubMed, analyzing current evidence from cross-sectional studies, reviews, and case series involving POCUS use for MSK conditions in general practice. We focused on outcomes including diagnostic accuracy, patient satisfaction, care efficiency, and therapeutic applications (i.e. guided injections). Key studies from both inpatient and outpatient settings were used to extrapolate potential benefits relevant to primary care.

Results: POCUS enhances both diagnostic accuracy and procedural precision in evaluating musculoskeletal pain through real-time static and dynamic assessments. It facilitates immediate interventions—such as aspirations and injections—reducing reliance on external imaging. Studies also describe a “POCUS Positive Care Effect,” where patients report greater satisfaction, trust, and understanding of their condition. In primary care, this dual benefit of clinical utility and socioemotional value supports POCUS as a powerful, patient-centered diagnostic tool.

Conclusions/Discussion: POCUS offers both clinical and therapeutic advantages in musculoskeletal pain management in primary care—enabling faster diagnosis, better targeted treatments, and improved patient satisfaction. Its real-time capabilities and socioemotional benefits position it as a valuable, patient-centered alternative to the delayed and fragmented approach of traditional care pathways.