Physical Assessment Services

This measures a person’s level of function and ability to perform functional or work-related tasks on a safe and dependable basis over time. Data is collected during the assessment and analyzed in order to establish an individual’s current level of function in regard to their ability to perform a variety of job tasks. The assessment includes an examination of pertinent clinical pathology, identification of behaviors that impact an individual’s physical performance, objective musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and biomechanical testing, functional testing, and an assessment of effort. Through analysis and interpretation of the data, a workday projection can usually be made. The interpretation and analysis of this data are completed by a Regulated Health Practitioner.

This can be accomplished through a Functional Abilities Evaluation or Targeted Functional Assessment:

Functional Abilities Evaluation (FAE) –

A functional assessment that uses a standardized approach and process to globally assess all functional tolerances that are safe for the individual, based on the pertinent clinical pathology, and would not necessarily be specific to a job. A workday tolerance is routinely provided with an FAE.

Targeted Functional Assessment (TFA) –

A functional assessment wherein the testing is in relation to a question as outlined by the referral source. Sound clinical reasoning is essential to identify the important assessment components and to critically analyze all the data collected during the assessment process, in order to clearly address the referral question. Referral questions may be in relation to a specific body part, a specific job, and/or specific job tasks. Workday tolerances and maximum capacities will be determined based on the referral question.

Office Ergonomic Assessment –

In an office environment, physical discomfort and chronic injury rarely result from a single root cause. Chronic pain and injury are often the products of years of physical, cognitive, and environmental stresses. Understanding the complex interplay of stresses is the key to reducing workplace stress and injury. Our comprehensive Office Ergonomic Assessments address work discomfort, injury, medical conditions, and return to work scenarios. We examine key ergonomic risk factors, including tasks, work behaviors, environment, and equipment and furniture usage, to determine the root causes. Often it is the physician, physical therapist, or chiropractor who recommends that their patient have an assessment. Based on our assessment, we identify ways to address the problem with practical solutions. Our human-centered approach addresses each employee as an individual. In addition to working directly with employees, we provide comprehensive written documentation of our findings and recommendations. Typically, options are provided for follow-up.

Industrial Ergonomic Assessment –

Knowing the risks is the first step to eliminating the potential for workplace injury and improving productivity. Our comprehensive industrial assessments examine key ergonomic factors associated with identified jobs and work areas and make practical recommendations to reduce the ergonomic risks. Our professional ergonomists observe task performance, quantify work conditions, and assess tools, equipment, and work surfaces. By comparing workplace equipment and conditions to the functional measurements of employees, we are able to utilize ergonomic standards and guidelines for the workforce. Our findings and recommendations are summarized in a detailed assessment report. Typically, options are provided for follow-up.