Functional Capacity Evaluations
Provided
by
Work Hardening Services, Ltd.
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is performed by a Licensed Physical Therapist as a statistically based way to objectively measure a worker's physical capabilities.
The worker's functional abilities are observed and measured based on pre-injury work demands and evaluated using the pre-determined U.S. Department of Labor Physical Strength Demand Levels of:
Medium
In addition, the workers functional capacities are listed in the report in the form of an evaluation, and a suggested plan of treatment is provided. The patient is evaluated over an intense 4-8 hour period to quantify the following functions: fingering, gripping, reaching, handling, standing, kneeling, crouching, bending, lifting, pulling, carrying, pushing, typing, walking stairs, walking, stretching, and climbing.
The work simulator, manufactured by BTE, is essentially a computerized dynamometer which measures the force output for activities essential for proper work performance.