title: A brief history and comparative analysis of disability systems and impairment rating guides.
abstract: The evaluation of musculoskeletal impairment and disability is an integral part of office practice in orthopedics. Proper performance of this function requires a clear understanding of the evolution and present structure of disability systems and the strengths and weaknesses of impairment rating methodologies.
mesh_terms: D004185:Disability Evaluation; D049670:History, 17th Century; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049691:History, Medieval; D006801:Humans