A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is generally completed by either an Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist with specified training in conducting these examinations and is completed in order to provide an assessment of your functional abilities in relation to employment-related tasks and activities of daily living. Though not every FCE is exactly the same, they typically take one or two days and involve testing of standard physical activities, including: carrying, lifting, reaching, bending, crouching, walking, grip strength and dexterity. Following testing, the administering therapist writes a report of their findings and provides their opinion as to what type of work you are capable of doing, given your injuries, and any functional impairment that affects your ability to complete activities of daily living, such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare. Over the course of your claim, you may be sent for an FCE by either your own lawyer, in order to further evidence ongoing impairment, or by Defence counsel, or both.
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