Functional status assessment.

Methodology of functional status assessment for musculoskeletal disorders has developed considerably in recent years. Reliability and sensitivity of measurements of physical functions are studied more systematically, and observer tests of activities of daily living functions have been developed with increased accuracy. A major area of interest, however, is reflected in studies of multidimensional assessments of functional limitations and the development of arthritis-specific questionnaires. The importance and difficulties of assessing function in clinical practice have been emphasized. Increasing interest among health planners and health economists in outcome measurements utilizing multidimensional functional assessments is evolving.