Functional Capacity Evaluations
At Evergreen Physical Therapy of Gladwin, our Physical Therapists have undergone specialized education and training to implement comprehensive, evidence-based assessments of a patients physical abilities and work-related functional capacity.
Getting Employees Back to Work Faster & Preventing Workplace Injuries
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE), sometimes referred to as a Physical Capacity Evaluation, is a test that ensures an accurate determination of an employee’s abilities and/or return to work readiness. The purpose of the evaluation is to assure a safe and sustained return to duties. The evaluation can be used before, during, and after rehabilitation.
Our FCE uses cross-checks for validity and reliability measurements. The test can also be used to determine possible reasons for delayed recovery or inconsistencies in the employee’s test result.
What Do You Want in An FCE Evaluation?
- Fast, Flexible Scheduling
- Comprehensive Evaluation
- Reliable, Objective, and Defensible Results
- Personalized Customer Service
Our Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a standardized objective test to determine a client’s physical tolerances and abilities and compare those levels to industry standards. We will evaluate job specific tasks such as lifting, standing, carrying, pushing/pulling, positional tolerances, and gripping. Our test evaluates the client’s full and consistent effort level as well as determining reliable and measurable pain reports. It finds the exact percentage of the job an injured employee can perform and correlates it to the physical demand level (PDL). We will determine your client’s ability to return to work. If appropriate, we will establish return to work restrictions or determine the need for further therapy prior to resuming work. We strive to have our reports speak the language of physicians, insurance carriers, and employers, making it convenient for everyone involved in getting an injured employee back to work. Our FCEs have also been a resource for disability purposes as well.
What Are the Benefits of Functional Capacity Evaluations?
- To determine the activity level that is right for the client, ensuring the highest probability of returning to work without risk of re-injury.
- Objectively define an individual’s safe and functional level for returning to work along with any necessary job modifications or assistive devices necessary to help an individual return to work at their prior level.
- Provide validity-based and legally defensible answers to relevant case questions.
Currently, FCE’s are available at all Evergreen locations. To learn more about our Functional Capacity Evaluation program, call us at (989) 246-2311.
Functional Capacity Evaluation FAQ
What should you wear?
Please wear loose-fitting clothing or similar clothing that you would wear at work on a usual day to the evaluation.
How long will this evaluation take?
The evaluation will take 3-6 hours; please plan your schedule accordingly.
Should you take medication before your appointment?
- Please do not take any additional pain medications or prescription drugs outside of your normal prescribed amount before the evaluation.
- Please do take your normal prescribed medications before the evaluation.
- If you use an inhaler, please bring it.
What is expected of you during this evaluation?
Please come prepared to give your best effort on all tests.
Should you eat before your appointment?
The evaluation will be lengthy and a proper amount of rest as well as water and food intake will be necessary prior to the evaluation.
What is this evaluation for?
This evaluation determines how your functional abilities match your job requirements. Please come prepared to give a clear and detailed description of your physical activities at work.
