Modeling the indirect economic implications of musculoskeletal disorders and treatment

Table 2 Comparison of physical function questions

SF-36 physical function area	National health interview survey
(1–3 points each)
Moderate activities, such as moving a table, pushing a vacuum cleaner,bowling, or playing golf	Push or pull large objects like a living room chair (1–3 points)
Lifting or carrying groceries	Lift or carry a 10-pound bag (1–3 points)
Climbing several flights of stairs	Walk up steps without resting (2–6 points)
Climbing one flight of stairs	Walk up steps without resting (2–6 points)
Bending, kneeling, or stooping	Stoop, bend, or kneel (1–3 points)
Walking more than a mile	Walk a quarter of a mile (3–9 points)
Walking several blocks
Walking one block
Vigorous activities, such as running, lifting heavy objects, participating in strenuous sports	No corresponding variable in NHIS
Bathing or dressing yourself

Note: for the SF-36 total points = 30 and the patient’s Functionality Index = (∑points)/30. For the NHIS total points = 24 and the patient’s Index = (∑points)/24.

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