Six-months outcome after fracture for working-age persons analyzed using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health - a prospective cohort observational study

Background: Fractures following trauma affect physical and mental health for working-age persons, and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) can help therapists understand the fractures' impact on daily lives.

Purpose: To examine self-reported functioning and outcomes six months after upper and lower body fractures and compare limitations using the ICF.

Methods: Data were collected from 160 patients with fractures as part of a prospective cohort study. The primary outcome measure was the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire that covers all domains of the ICF. Moreover, sick leave, sense of coherence, and physical activity were reported.

Results: Six months after the injury, function had improved significantly, but patients reported problems on all domains in the ICF with few differences between the upper and lower body groups. Leisure activities caused problems for 63 (38.8%) of the patients and bothered 86 (53.8%). Problems performing work bothered 63 (39.4%) with no significant difference between the groups, although a significantly higher proportion in the upper body group had returned to work within two months (p < .001).

Conclusion: Six months after fractures, adults reported problems on all ICF domains, especially on the participation dimension, which therapists should address in the rehabilitation process.