WorkPlace Solutions™ for Wisconsin Businesses.
Reduce Injuries, Lost Time & Improve Employee Retention with Onsite Care
Helping Employers Care for Their People.
If your employees become injured, sending them to a hospital system is not only costly, but the speed of recovery could be lengthy due to wait times and scheduling issues.
At Orthopedic & Spine Therapy, in our WorkPlace Solutions division, we work with employers to care for their employees either in our clinics or onsite.
This translates to better care for your team, lower instances of injury on the job site, faster recovery time, and better employee retention and morale.
What is Possible?
- Onsite Physical Therapy - Working with employees onsite or in-clinic with physical therapy tailored to the needs of the company and the injured worker.
- Functional Testing - Weekly functional testing according to injured worker's job description.
- Educational Content - Lunch and learn seminars specific to your company.
- Case Management - Case management and return-to-work planning with the company, injured worker, case managers, and claims representatives.
- FCE Services - Providing employers with Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE). See below questions.
- Ergonomic Onsite Assessments & Stretching Programs - Ensuring your team has strong ergonomics, stretches, and education to reduce injury.
- Job Role Definitions - Job analysis & description creation, ergonomic consultations, injury prevention education, and return-to-work programs.
- Post-offer Testing & Screening - Development and implementation of post-offer testing/screening.
- Work Conditioning - A customized program for an injured worker's case and job description, including education and job task simulation.
Functional Capacity Evaluation Frequently Asked Questions
What is Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
A FCE is a test that evaluates an individual’s capacity to perform work activities related to their employment. This series of tests, administered by a Physical Therapist, collects objective information used to determine the ability of the evaluated person to function in a work environment. The FCE is unique in that it focuses on the evaluee’s abilities which serves to maximize the individual’s return to work options. We use the FCE developed by DSI Work Solutions which is the one of the most court-defensible and reliable FCE tests available.
How long will my FCE take?
A functional capacity evaluation is typically a one-day test that takes 4 to 6 hours. However, those referring a person for an FCE will occasionally request a two-day test, 4-6 hours on each day, to measure the effect of physical activity on consecutive days.
What will I be asked to do during my FCE?
The FCE is intended to provide a comprehensive assessment of your functional ability. The FCE begins with a physical examination where your evaluator will assess your overall strength and range of motion. You will then be asked to complete a series of tests that will require you to walk, lift, carry, push, pull, perform fine motor activities, perform activities at low and elevated height, and ascend and descend stairs.
Will I feel pain or soreness during or after the test?
Since the FCE process asks you to complete test components to your maximum capacity it is common to experience fatigue, soreness, and even pain during the test. However, your safety is the number one priority. Please tell your evaluator what you are feeling so that they can modify testing and/or provide you with appropriate amounts of rest.
What do I need to bring to my FCE?
Please bring your driver’s license or identification card, medication list, required assistive devices, and any additional relevant documentation such as a job description or medical records. It is also a good idea to bring a water bottle. You will also be asked to fill out an intake form as aprt of the evaluation.
What should I wear?
It is important for you to be comfortable. Most people dress in clothing that they are comfortable exerting themselves in such as athletic clothing and comfortable shoes. However, some people choose to wear work clothing and work boots.
Have Any Additional Questions?
If you have any additional questions please contact, Suzanne Laurent at (920) 257-5792 or slaurent@ostpt.com
“OST’s quick on site responses to employee’s strains has helped Pacon employees recover quicker and prevent further lifting injuries. Their therapist is able to give physical therapy advice and at the same time preventative guidance while working with the employee at their job. No outside physical therapist provides this great service like OST has.”
Safety Manager, Pacon
