Overview explaining a functional capability evaluation in Mount Vernon, Ohio by guest blogger, Dr. Chris Lovejoy PT, DPT, CIDN

To put it simply, it is an opportunity for us to help our patients with a prognosis on whether they are recommended to return to work after an extended period of medical leave due to injury.

Determining when you may return to work
I am very proud to be a part of our very talented team here at Swetlic Chiropractic & Physical Therapy as we are continuously building our patient load to help with the occupational rehabilitation that measures whether that may be possible

Identifying changes in employee workload
An FCE can also be used to help identify changes to employee workload, or modifications to working conditions such as ergonomic measures, that the employer may be able to undertake in an effort to accommodate an employee with a disability or medical condition.

Determined by a medical doctor
FCEs are needed to determine if an employee can resume working in a capacity within his or her skills or abilities before the disability or medical condition was diagnosed. An FCE involves assessments made by one or more medical doctors.

FCEs may be required by law for some employers
FCEs may be required by law for some employers before an employee can return to work, as well as by insurers before insurance payments can be made. FCEs are also used to determine eligibility for disability insurance, or pension eligibility if an employee is permanently unable to return to work.

An overview of how we measure this
During Most FCEs, the following measurements are also taken:

• Lifting power
• Push and pull power
• How long one can stand or walk
• Flexibility and reaching
• Grasping and holding capabilities
• Bending capabilities
• Balance capabilities

If you are in need of doctors of physical therapists, we welcome you to contact us today to schedule an appointment with our extraordinary team of individuals who are dedicated to help you live the life you deserve!