[Degenerative joint and spine diseases]

Degenerative joint and spine diseases account for more than 70% of all complaints and functional impairment in the human locomotor system. An expert assessor has to answer questions referring to loss of capability of earning a living and to the extent of an invalidity. He will often be confronted with questions whether or not the body damage is related to an accident. He therefore has to be familiar with accident mechanisms and typical injury patterns. Particular details of examination and imaging important for fulfilling the assessor's task are given. Special hints will be given referring to evaluation of rotator cuff lesions and spine syndromes.