Evaluation of the musculoskeletal system of patients in cardiopulmonary and metabolic rehabilitation programs.

Background: Participants of cardiopulmonary and metabolic rehabilitation (CPMR) programs may present with musculoskeletal changes that may affect treatment compliance and effectiveness.

Objective: To develop an instrument for evaluation of the musculoskeletal system and identification of problems, especially those related to exercise, so that patients can be cleared to exercise with no restrictions, cleared with restrictions, or not cleared before approval from a specialist.

Methods: Construction and validation (according to Cronbach's alpha) of a musculoskeletal system assessment inventory (MSSAI), for subsequent administration to participants in CPMR programs.