title: The assessment of function: How is it measured? A clinical perspective.
abstract: Testing for outcome or performance can take many forms; including multiple iterations of self-reported measures of function (an assessment of the individual's perceived dysfunction) and/or clinical special tests (which are primarily assessments of impairments). Typically absent within these testing mechanisms is whether or not one can perform a specific task associated with function. The paper will operationally define function, discuss the construct of function within the disablement model, will overview the multi-dimensional nature of 'function' as a concept, will examine the current evidence for functional testing methods, and will propose a functional testing continuum. Limitations of functional performance testing will be discussed including recommendations for future research.
authors.affiliation: Department of Community and Family Practice, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Reiman
authors.forename: Robert C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Manske