Importance of job analysis with functional capacity matching in medical case management: A physician's perspective

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Barbara Toeppen-Sprigg,

Affiliations: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Akron, OH, USA, and Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine, Rootstown, OH, USA

Note: [] The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, 1144 East Market Street, D108H, Akron, OH 44316, USA. Tel.: +1 330 796 9295; Fax: +1 330 796 3183; E-mail: Barbara. toeppensprigg@goodyear.com

Abstract: Medical case management of musculoskeletal injuries can be facilitated when objective testing of the physical demands of the job can be compared to the functional capabilities of the individual. When the job analysis is appropriately sectioned into the separate physical demands, the physician can use information about specific job demands to maximize the likelihood of a safe return to regular duties. The response in the physical abilities in the worker can then be again functionally evaluated, leading to increased confidence in the process.

Journal: Work, vol. 15, no. 2, pp. 133-137, 2000