Modern Approaches to the Examination and Assessment of the Functional Status of Individuals with Musculoskeletal Disorders

The article provides a theoretical rationale for modern approaches to the comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the functional status of individuals with musculoskeletal disorders within the physical therapy system. It analyzes the applicability of standardized scales and questionnaires for determining pain intensity, the level of functional independence, limitations in daily activities, joint status, and health-related quality of life. The study examines the use of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, the Barthel Index, the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), SF-36, EQ-5D, the Lee Functional Index, the Lequesne Index, and the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). It outlines the significance of quantitatively assessing pain, joint swelling, morning stiffness, mobility, and the ability to perform activities of daily living. The necessity of combining subjective and objective assessment methods—while considering the domains of functioning, activity, and participation—is substantiated. It is established that standardized instruments ensure the comparability of results, enable the monitoring of recovery dynamics, and enhance the evidence base for individualized rehabilitation programs.