Functional Capacity Evaluations in Swift Current
A detailed assessment of what you can safely do physically, completed by a Metriks-trained physiotherapist.
What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation
A functional capacity evaluation (FCE) is a detailed assessment of what you can safely do physically. It looks at your ability to handle the demands of work and daily life, like lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, standing, walking, sitting, bending, reaching and gripping. Evaluations are completed by a Metriks-trained physiotherapist.
FCEs are most often used after an injury or illness to help answer practical questions: Are you ready to return to work? Which tasks are safe right now? What modifications or restrictions might help? What should the next step in your recovery look like?
Who Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation For
- Workers recovering from an injury who are planning a return to work
- People with a WCB, SGI or disability insurance claim
- Employers planning modified or gradual return-to-work duties
- Insurers, case managers and legal representatives who need an objective picture of someone's physical abilities
- Anyone whose job has specific physical demands that need to be matched to their current abilities
What to Expect During an FCE
An FCE is more involved than a regular physiotherapy appointment, and it usually takes several hours. We'll start by reviewing your health history, your injury, your current symptoms and the physical demands of your job.
From there, you'll complete a series of standardized tests and work-related tasks, such as:
- Lifting and carrying at different heights
- Pushing and pulling
- Standing, walking, sitting and climbing stairs
- Bending, kneeling, squatting and reaching
- Grip and hand function
- Tasks that mirror your specific job, where possible
Throughout the evaluation, we monitor how your body responds, including your heart rate, movement quality and symptoms. You're always in control. We'll never ask you to push past what you feel is safe, and you can stop any task at any time.
What Happens After Your FCE
You'll receive a clear, detailed written report summarizing your physical abilities, how they compare to the demands of your job, and our recommendations. These may include suitable duties, temporary restrictions, a gradual return-to-work plan or further treatment that could help. Reports are typically shared with you and the referral source.
Our Approach to Functional Capacity Evaluations
An FCE should be fair, thorough and objective. Our evaluations are completed by a physiotherapist trained in functional capacity evaluation through Metriks, using standardized testing procedures. We explain each task before you do it and report what we observe honestly and clearly. Our goal is to give everyone involved, including you, your employer, your doctor and your insurer, an accurate picture that supports a safe and realistic next step.
We also know an FCE can feel stressful, especially when a claim or your job is involved. We'll take the time to explain the process, answer your questions and make sure you feel respected throughout.
How to Book an FCE
FCEs are usually arranged by WCB, SGI, an insurance company, an employer or a legal representative, and are often paid for by the referring organization. You can also contact us directly if you're unsure whether an FCE is right for your situation.