Individuals recovering from a work-related injury often reach a point where their healing has stabilized and long-term functional ability must be clearly documented. At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush (MOR), our specialists provide medically accurate impairment rating evaluations for patients across Chicago and the greater Chicagoland area. These evaluations offer an objective measure of lasting functional loss after a musculoskeletal injury, helping patients, employers, and care teams understand long-term physical capacity.

If you need a clinically precise evaluation, you can request an appointment anytime through our convenient online form:

What Is an Impairment Rating?

An impairment rating is a medical evaluation that measures the degree of permanent functional loss after an injury once an individual has reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). It expresses long-term limitations as a percentage based on objective clinical findings, standardized measurements, and musculoskeletal function.

Why Impairment Ratings Matter in Work-Related Injuries

An impairment rating provides clarity for individuals whose recovery has plateaued and who continue to experience measurable limitations. It is a standardized medical process used to identify lasting functional deficits-such as reduced strength, limited range of motion, or chronic pain-after the body has healed as much as expected.

What This Means in Practice:

• Documents measurable, objective loss of function.

• Helps describe the long-term impact of a musculoskeletal injury.

• Reflects medical findings, not personal pain levels or job performance.

• Maintains neutrality regarding employment decisions and legal processes.

MOR’s evaluations are designed to be clinically thorough, patient-centered, and aligned with evidence-based orthopedic medicine.

When an Impairment Rating Is Recommended

An IR is typically considered when a patient reaches Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)-the point when further significant recovery is not expected.

Circumstances where an IR is appropriate include:

• Persistent functional limitations after injury

• Long-term range-of-motion restrictions

• Post-surgical stabilization

• Chronic musculoskeletal changes

• Residual weakness or sensory deficits

• Work-related injuries requiring objective documentation

Many patients across Chicago are referred for an impairment rating as part of their long-term recovery plan, especially after orthopedic injuries, surgeries, or physically demanding job duties.

What to Expect During an Impairment Rating Evaluation at MOR

Our evaluation process is designed to be clear, structured, and supportive. Patients receive a medically accurate assessment rooted in orthopedic and rehabilitation expertise.

1. Medical History and Record Review

Your specialist reviews:

• Injury details

• Imaging reports

• Treatment progress

• Therapy documentation

• Prior evaluations

This ensures an accurate understanding of your recovery timeline and functional status.

2. Physical Examination and Standardized Measurements

Our clinicians use validated medical measurements, including:

• Strength testing: Manual and sometimes instrumented assessments

• Range of motion: Objective goniometric evaluation

• Neurological function: Sensory, reflex, and motor tests

• Functional findings: Observable limitations supported by clinical evidence

3. Calculation of Impairment Percentage

Using standardized medical criteria, the physician determines:

• The degree of permanent functional loss

• How that loss affects overall musculoskeletal function

• A clear, patient-friendly explanation of the findings

4. Final Documentation and Summary

Patients receive:

• A clinically accurate report

• Clear descriptions of the findings

• A medically neutral summary that avoids legal interpretation

This documentation integrates objective measurements, imaging findings, and functional status.

Impairment vs Disability: Key Differences

Patients often encounter both terms, but they have very different meanings.

Impairment

• A medical determination

• Measures loss of bodily function

• Based on objective clinical findings

• Calculated as a percentage

Disability

• Not a medical diagnosis

• Relates to how impairment affects work or daily activities

• Determined by non-medical systems (not by MOR)

Understanding the distinction helps patients set expectations and avoid confusion.

Who Performs an Impairment Rating at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush

MOR’s IR evaluations are performed by:

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) specialists

• Orthopedic subspecialists

• Clinicians trained in musculoskeletal examination and functional assessment

Our physicians incorporate research-backed examination methods and provide care consistent with MOR’s reputation as a leading orthopedic provider in Chicago.

To learn more about our approach, see: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Conditions Commonly Requiring an Impairment Rating

Common musculoskeletal conditions seen in IR evaluations include:

• Spine injuries (neck and back)

• Fractures

• Tendon or ligament tears

• Post-surgical stabilization (e.g., rotator cuff repair, ACL reconstruction)

• Joint degeneration or arthritis progression

• Chronic pain after acute injury

Orthopedic injuries are among the most frequent reasons Chicago-area patients seek IR assessments.

How Long Does an Impairment Rating Take?

Typical evaluation time:

• Exam duration: 30–60 minutes

• Documentation and calculation: Additional review after the visit

• Patient communication: Clear explanation of findings and next steps

Online scheduling makes it easier for patients across Chicagoland to find a time that fits their needs.

Required Documentation Before Your Appointment

To ensure accuracy:

• Recent imaging (MRI, X-ray, CT)

• Physical therapy progress notes

• Surgical summaries, if applicable

• Work injury documentation or employer referral (if provided)

• Medication or treatment list

For work-related injuries, see: Workers’ Compensation

Impairment Ratings and Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)

Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) refers to the point when no major recovery is expected.

An impairment rating is typically scheduled only after MMI because:

• Healing has plateaued

• Functional findings are stable

• Long-term limitations can be accurately measured

MMI does not determine employability or legal decisions-it only reflects medical stability.

Why Chicago Patients Choose MOR for Impairment Ratings

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is one of the nation’s leading orthopedic practices, trusted by patients across Chicago and the surrounding region.

Patients choose MOR for:

• Orthopedic specialists with extensive musculoskeletal expertise

• Research-driven evaluation methods

• Collaborative PM&R and therapy teams

• Clear communication and patient-centered care

• Multiple accessible Chicago-area locations

• Integrated therapy options (e.g., [internal link: Occupational therapy services])

Schedule an Impairment Rating Evaluation

Patients, employers, and care teams can request evaluations through MOR’s dedicated appointment request page:

Online scheduling provides fast access to subspecialty orthopedic care across Chicago.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an impairment rating?

A medical assessment that measures permanent functional loss after injury, expressed as a percentage.

How is impairment calculated?

Through objective findings including strength, motion, neurological assessment, and functional limitations.

Who can request an impairment rating?

Patients, treating clinicians, employers, or workers’ compensation programs may initiate requests.

Does impairment mean disability?

No. Impairment is a medical measurement, while disability is an administrative or workplace determination.

What happens after MMI?

Once a patient reaches MMI, long-term functional limitations can be measured, and an IR may be recommended.

Is an impairment rating permanent?

It reflects your condition at the time of evaluation. Changes in health may warrant future assessment if clinically appropriate.

How long does the evaluation take?

Most evaluations last 30–60 minutes.

Do I need imaging before the appointment?

Recent imaging is helpful but not always required. Your physician will advise based on your case.

Is an IR the same as an FCE?

No. An FCE measures physical tolerances; an IR measures permanent impairment.