Rehabilitation in orthopedics and trauma surgery. State of the art [Rehabilitation in Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie. Eine Standortbestimmung]

Diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system are the most common reasons for rehabilitation in Germany. The statutory health insurance, pension funds and the German social accident insurance are service providers for rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is based on the international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF). The extensive possibilities for medical rehabilitation are increasingly being supplemented by options for combined medical and occupational rehabilitation. The demographic changes in Germany are also a challenge for rehabilitation. In a situation of predicted labor deficit, even now it becomes essential to keep employees longer in their jobs. The increasing number of elderly persons causes an increase in frequent age-dependent diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis in combination with age-dependent injuries. This will be a burden for the health system in acute care medicine and rehabilitation. Improving activities and participation following diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system will end in an increase in utilization of rehabilitation. This needs to be considered and reflected in an adjusted higher budget for costs in rehabilitation. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013.