Introduction/Objective: Despite the frequent use of therapeutic ultrasound for musculoskeletal disorders, there is little evidence for its efficacy. The objective of our study was to systematically evaluate the literature with respect to the efficacy of ultrasound therapy for musculoskeletal disorders; to formulate priorities regarding the initiation of new intervention studies and the implementation of evidence in clinical practice.

Methods: A systematic review is being conducted on the efficacy of ultrasound therapy, separately for several indications. Selection of relevant (non-)randomised trials, assessment of the quality of methods and data extraction will be carried out by two reviewers independently. The current use of ultrasound therapy in the field of physiotherapy will be assessed by using information from existing databases and registration systems. In order to evaluate the opinion regarding efficacy of therapeutic ultrasound in the field, a standardised questionnaire will be sent to a representative sample of 200 physical therapists and 50 experts, including teachers and physicians.

Results/Discussion: For each indication, the strength of the available evidence will be compared with the frequency of use and the existing opinion regarding efficacy in the field. In case of a large discrepancy between 'belief and available evidence (e.g. frequent use and strong belief, but low level of evidence, or vice versa), a higher priority will be given to future intervention studies or to implementation of the evidence in clinical practice. Final results will be presented at the 5th Cochrane Colloquium.