What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
If you are looking to evaluate someone’s ability to perform work duties and regular activities of daily living, then you should consider a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE). An FCE is an extensive physical evaluation that assesses cognitive abilities, behaviors, emotional reactions, strength, range of motion and flexibility, aerobic capacity, as well as other tests such as gripping or sensory evaluations. It can also observe the ability to complete certain activities related to employment. In this blog post, we will discuss the purpose of an FCE and how it can be used.
Purpose of an FCE
The purpose of an FCE is to provide valuable insight into one’s overall functional status. The results of an FCE can be used by physicians and insurers to help determine if a person is able to return to work or receive disability payments. It can also provide insight into how workplace modifications may improve job performance for those who remain employed. Furthermore, an FCE typically includes evaluating a person’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing oneself or bathing independently.
Components of an FCE
An FCE assesses various components in order to fully understand one’s overall functional status. This typically includes physical evaluations such as strength, range of motion and flexibility testing, aerobics capacity testing, gripping or sensory evaluations; cognitive abilities assessment; behavioral observations; and emotional reaction assessments. Additionally, the evaluator observes the ability for someone to complete certain activities that are related to employment; for example sitting for long periods of time or standing/walking on level surfaces for extended periods without significant fatigue.
In conclusion, a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) provides insight into someone’s overall functional status and potential capabilities in both work-related tasks and activities of daily living (ADLs). If you need more information about how an FCE works and how it could benefit you or a loved one who needs assistance with returning back to work after injury or illness, contact your primary care physician today! They will be able to provide more information about the specifics surrounding this type of evaluation so that you can make an informed decision when assessing your needs.