Prediction of functional capacities

Objective: This study explores the hypothesis that clients with low back injury can estimate their own functional capacities for waist-level lifting, lifting from the floor, and standing tolerance prior to formal functional capacity testing. Summary of background data: The frequent use of functional capacity evaluations for clients with industrial injuries and health care cost containment prompted research on the appropriateness and need for ohjective functional capacity evaluations. Study design/methods: All clients referred to the Sister Kenny Institute Work Injury Program for functional capacity evaluations from July 1991 to May 1992 were screened for eligibility and willingness to participate. Seventy-five subjects participated in the study. These subjects predicted their capacities prior to formal functional capacities testing; formal testing results were then compared to the predictions. Results: Results indicated the majority of low back injured clients' actual test scores were not within 20 tests. Conclusion: The outcome of this study indicates it is difficult for clients to accurately predict their own functional capacities following low back injuries. Therefore, when functional capacities remain in question, functional capacity evaluations continue to be a valuable and cost-effective route to promote a safe return to work.