[Early pensioning: reasons and sequelae. A retrospective study of prognosis in early pensioning and course of illness subsequent to premature retirement].

The aim of the present study was to identify factors at the beginning of inpatient rehabilitation for musculoskeletal diseases, predicting the employment state as early retiree or employed person 5 years after discharge. Of the cases, 88.7% could be correctly classified by logistic regression through "results of radiological imaging procedures," "duration of sick leave," and "wish for social compensation." Another objective was investigation of the influence of retirement on development of complaints. Early retirees were compared retrospectively to working persons 5 years after discharge with regard to development of main symptoms and well-being, considering the initial reason for social compensation. Early retirees with clinical reason for early retirement showed no marked changes, whereas patients who continued to work improved significantly in the long run. Results are discussed in relation to their socioeconomic implications.