Functional Capacity Evaluation
Functional Capacity Evaluation in Edmonton
Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive, objective evaluation that collects reliable information to determine a person’s overall physical capacity to function and limitations. In addition, it helps extensively identify an individual’s functional strengths and the underlying neuromusculoskeletal factors involved in the identified limitations.
An FCE can be ordered by various representatives, such as employers, lawyers, unions, etc. In case of an injury or illness, an FCE can help determine whether a person can return to regular duties or modify them. It evaluates whether a person’s physical abilities match the job demands. In a job change, an FCE tests the person’s ability to participate and complete tasks in the required job. In case of disputes, an FCE provides impartial reports and recommendations.
The Purpose of Functional Capacity Evaluations
Undergoing a Functional Capacity Evaluation can help make recommendations for the level of workday tolerance of a person or ability to carry out everyday activities safely with a low risk of harm. If physical limitations are identified by a professional, the FCE evaluator will suggest potential solutions to help the recovery of those physical limitations. When a clinical impairment with physical barriers or specific limitations gets identified, the FCE report makes recommendations for treatment or an action plan to improve physical capacity for employment and estimates the likelihood of future development. The FCE report also recommends modifications for the required job as necessary.
The Functional Capacity Evaluation Process
At Innovation Physical Therapy, various FCEs, such as baseline FCE, Job-Specific FCE, and Medical-Legal FCE, are conducted by highly trained, certified, and experienced physical therapists. The duration of the testing can vary from two to eight hours a day or two days, depending on the person’s ability and the details of the information requested by the referral source.
At Innovation, we provide a client-centred approach to bring out positive outcomes. The client is expected and encouraged to make a total effort throughout the tests on the testing day. The FCE starts with an interview period that includes the client filling out various questionnaires on the job descriptions, medical and social history, perceptions of their pain and abilities.
Then, the evaluator conducts standardized tests where the client can continue or stop. They include:
- Extensive musculoskeletal screening
- Mobility
- Testing physical effort
- Speed
- Gross body and limb coordination
- Stamina
- Prolonged positional tolerance
- Strength
- Ability to handle various materials
- Balance
- Dexterity
Next Steps After Evaluation
Upon completing tests, the Innovation-evaluator analyzes and interprets the measured data and provides a comprehensive and reliable report, answering the referral questions with independent opinions where required. The most common referral questions are:
1. What are the client’s overall current physical abilities?
2. Is the client capable of safely participating in the required job capacity?
3. Does the client have the capacity to work full-time or part-time?
4. Are there any restrictions for the client to carry out the required job?
5. Are there any recommendations on the accommodations and future development of the restrictions?
6. Specific questions related to the job and condition.