About half of the projects at the department are large scale randomised clinical trials. The other studies include observational (cohort) studies and systematic reviews and meta-analysis. Most studies concern musculoskeletal disorders in primary care.

Bart Koes published widely (> 580 publications listed in Pubmed) in the area of musculoskeletal disorders in primary care. His papers are widely cited; more than 27.000 citations (web of science 2019). He is member and chairperson of various guideline committees in the field of back pain and sciatica.