Starting a new phase in your rehabilitation journey may bring questions, especially if you are having a functional capacity evaluation (FCE). You may wonder what it is, why it's important, and what to expect during the evaluation.

 This evaluation is about understanding your ability to perform day to day tasks and work activities, so we can work with you to build a Rehabilitation Plan that supports your needs.

What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A functional capacity evaluation is designed to help you, and your rehabilitation team, understand what you're currently able to do for physical and functional activities.

Think of it as a “snapshot” of your physical functional abilities. It’s a way for us to see how your body is doing right now, so we can tailor your Rehabilitation Plan to meet your needs and support you in reaching your rehabilitation goals.

Why Is it Important?

A functional capacity evaluation provides information about your physical functioning. This helps your rehabilitation team:

• Understand the impact of your program eligible health problems on your daily life.
• Identify areas where you might benefit from further support
• Determine your readiness for work or other meaningful activities from a physical perspective.
• Ensure your rehabilitation goals are aligned with what your body can safely manage.
  
  

It’s also a key tool for communicating your needs to others, whether that’s with your VAC Case Manager or your overall rehabilitation team.

For you, this means no guesswork. A functional capacity evaluation helps by showing what’s reasonable, what’s achievable, and where support is most needed from a physical functional perspective.

What Happens at a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

It will be led by a specially trained PCVRS Rehabilitation Service Professional.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Supportive Start

Your assessor will begin by explaining the purpose of the functional capacity evaluation and answering any questions you have. You’ll talk about your health history, any injuries or conditions you’re managing, and what your typical day looks like. A physical exam will then be conducted to ensure there are no safety concerns before participating in the more vigorous functional testing aspects of the assessment (lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling etc.)

2. Physical Activities

You’ll be asked to perform everyday tasks that mimic real-life activities, such as:

• Walking or standing for short periods
• Lifting or carrying objects
• Reaching, bending, or crouching
• Simulated job tasks (depending on your goals)

These activities are monitored closely, not to judge your performance, but to assess things like:

• Your range of motion
• Endurance and strength
• How your body responds to different tasks
• Signs of discomfort, fatigue, or limitations

If at any point during the assessment you wish to take an extra break or stop an activity, you may do so.

3. Thoughtfully Paced

The evaluation typically takes a few hours and is broken into manageable parts, with breaks as needed.

Your safety and comfort are top priorities throughout the evaluation. Similar to any physical activity, you might experience some muscle soreness afterward, which is a normal response. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your rehabilitation team.

4. What Happens After the Evaluation

Once it’s complete, the assessor will compile their findings into a detailed clinical report. This report helps:

• Identify your strengths and current challenges
• Guide the development of your Rehabilitation Plan
• Provide recommendations for safe activity levels
• Support return-to-work planning or decisions about future care

The results will be reviewed with you and shared with your rehabilitation team to ensure everyone is working with the same information to support you best.

Why It Matters

A functional capacity evaluation is a crucial tool that ensures your Rehabilitation Plan is based on your demonstrated physical functioning. Each rehabilitation journey is unique and tailored to meet your specific goals.  

Whether you're returning to work, adjusting your daily activities, or want to feel more confident in your physical abilities, this evaluation is a supportive step toward those goals.