What to Expect During a Functional Capacity Evaluation

Are you preparing for a functional capacity evaluation (FCE) but unsure what to expect? Don’t sweat it! Our functional capacity evaluation in Edmonton helps determine your ability to perform work-related tasks and physical activities. Whether it’s for returning to work after an injury, assessing disability, or establishing your current physical limits, our experienced physiotherapists guide you through every step.

What Exactly Is a (FCE) Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A functional capacity evaluation is an assessment designed to measure a person’s physical abilities. Our physiotherapists assess how well your body can handle specific tasks—lifting, carrying, standing, or even sitting for extended periods. It’s especially useful if you’re trying to return to work after an injury or seeking compensation for a disability claim.

Through this evaluation, we determine your strengths, limitations, and any areas where improvements may be needed. Whether your goal is to get back to work or assess your physical restrictions, the FCE provides detailed insights into your physical health.

Why Do You Need an FCE?

You may need a functional capacity evaluation for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Determining if you’re ready to return to work after an injury
• Assessing your physical limitations for insurance or legal purposes
• Understanding how your condition affects your ability to perform everyday tasks
• Identifying necessary accommodations at work

Our physiotherapists often conduct FCEs for people who have had musculoskeletal injuries, such as back or neck issues, but it can be helpful for various conditions that impact physical function. It provides a clear picture of your current abilities, which can then guide your recovery plan or workplace adjustments.

Preparing for Your FCE

Preparation is key to getting the most accurate results from your functional capacity evaluation. Here’s what you need to know:

• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Since you’ll be performing physical tasks, wear something that allows you to move freely.
• Bring Relevant Documents: Any medical reports, treatment history, or job descriptions will help our physiotherapists understand your specific situation.
• Be Honest About Pain: If you’re experiencing discomfort during any part of the evaluation, let us know. The goal is to get a true picture of your physical limits—not push you beyond them.

Don’t worry if you’re feeling a bit nervous! It’s perfectly normal, but rest assured that the process is meant to assess your abilities in a controlled and safe environment. Our team is always on hand to provide support and guidance throughout the assessment.

The Evaluation Process: What to Expect

When you come in for your functional capacity evaluation, you’ll go through several stages. Here’s a breakdown of what will typically happen during your FCE:

Initial Interview:

We’ll start with a conversation. This helps us understand your medical history, your current physical condition, and any concerns you might have. The interview also gives us insight into your job’s physical demands, which will shape the tasks we ask you to perform during the evaluation.

Physical Testing:

This is where we get into the hands-on portion of the FCE. You’ll perform a series of tasks designed to simulate the movements and activities you’d do at work or in everyday life. The tasks might include:

• Lifting and carrying various weights
• Pushing and pulling objects
• Repetitive motions like bending or reaching
• Walking, standing, and sitting for specified durations
• Climbing stairs

Each task is carefully monitored, and we’ll be paying close attention to your posture, movement patterns, and any signs of discomfort.

Strength and Flexibility Assessments:

Beyond specific work-related tasks, our functional capacity evaluation in Edmonton checks your overall physical strength, flexibility, and range of motion. This might involve testing different muscle groups, joint flexibility, and overall endurance. The goal here is to identify any physical limitations and understand how they impact your functional abilities.

Pain and Endurance Tracking

Throughout the evaluation, we’ll ask you about your pain levels. It’s crucial to communicate openly with us so we can accurately assess how your condition affects your performance. We also track your endurance—how long you can perform a task before needing to stop.

After the Evaluation: What Happens Next?

Once your functional capacity evaluation is complete, we’ll compile all the data and provide a detailed report. This report will cover your physical capabilities, any limitations, and recommendations for next steps. Depending on the reason for your FCE, this report may be shared with your employer, insurance company, or healthcare provider.

At Momentum Physiotherapy, we use this information to create personalized rehabilitation plans that cater specifically to your needs. If necessary, we’ll recommend further treatment or modifications at work to ensure you can perform your job safely and comfortably.

Preparing for a Healthier Tomorrow:

provides a crucial assessment of your ability to return to work, manage physical limitations, and guide the development of tailored treatment plans. Our Momentum Physiotherapy team is dedicated to helping you regain control of your physical health and reach your optimal recovery. Whether you’re healing from an injury or managing chronic pain, we’ll partner with you to ensure you’re prepared to move forward confidently.

So, if you need a functional capacity evaluation, reach out to us today and let our experienced team support you on your journey to recovery!