Affiliations: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic
Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Vincent Gouttebarge, Academic
Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Coronel Institute of Occupational
Health, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31 20 566
5337; Fax: +31 20 697 7161; E-mail: v.gouttebarge@amc.nl
Abstract: Objective: The objective of this paper is to propose a three-step
procedure that can be used in the selection of functional tests from any full
Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) method in order to assess efficiently
physical work-ability in workers with musculoskeletal complaints (MSC) and
related functional limitations. Methods: Recently, some authors have
considered the selection of functional tests specific to particular jobs from
within a full FCE method. In the present study, based on existing literature
and on their own expertise on FCE methods, the authors develop in an analogous
manner a conceptual framework for selecting functional tests specific to
particular MSCs from within a full FCE method. Results: The first step is
to establish the worker's medical condition and to assign it to one or more
defined MSC categories (upper extremity, back, lower extremity). The second
step is to identify activities that are restricted by the medical condition
(e.g., lifting and bending for MSC of the back). The third and final step is to
select functional tests from a full FCE tests battery to permit measurement of
the restricted activities identified in Step 2, striving to avoid redundancy by
selecting a limited number of tests for each activity under investigation. Conclusions: The proposed three-step procedure is a new approach to enhance
the efficiency and practicality of FCEs.
