Functional Capacity & Limitation Testing
A comprehensive physical evaluation designed to objectively assess functional abilities, physical limitations, tolerances, and the demands of everyday or work-related activity.
What Is Functional Capacity & Limitation Testing?
Functional Capacity & Limitation Testing is an extended evaluation used to examine what an individual is physically able to do and where meaningful limitations remain.
Unlike a routine physical therapy evaluation, functional testing examines physical performance across a broader range of activities. The evaluation is designed to provide objective information about strength, mobility, tolerance, endurance, movement, and functional ability.
A Detailed Look at Physical Function
The specific activities included in an evaluation depend on the purpose of the testing and the individual's physical abilities. Testing may examine several areas of functional performance.
Strength & Material Handling
Testing may assess lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, strength, and the ability to perform physical tasks involving resistance or external loads.
Movement & Positional Tolerance
Activities may examine standing, walking, sitting, bending, reaching, squatting, positional tolerance, and other movements relevant to everyday or occupational function.
Endurance & Functional Tolerance
The evaluation may consider how physical performance changes over time and the individual's ability to tolerate repeated or sustained activity.
A Comprehensive, Extended Evaluation
Functional testing is considerably more extensive than a routine physical therapy visit. The evaluation involves a series of structured physical activities selected to examine relevant abilities and limitations.
Because testing can involve multiple areas of physical performance, patients should expect to spend substantially more time at the clinic than they would for a conventional therapy appointment. Appropriate rest periods and modifications can be incorporated throughout the evaluation when necessary.
Measurement Rather Than Treatment
The primary purpose of functional testing is evaluation rather than treatment. Instead of focusing on exercises or interventions intended to improve a condition during the visit, the emphasis is on observing, measuring, and documenting physical performance.
This provides a more detailed picture of what an individual can physically perform, which activities present difficulty, and where measurable functional limitations may remain.
Comprehensive Functional Testing
Functional Capacity & Limitation Testing is offered as a comprehensive private-pay evaluation for $800. The fee reflects the extended testing time and professional evaluation involved in completing a detailed assessment of physical function.
Because the reasons for requesting functional testing can vary, we encourage patients, family members, attorneys, employers, or other referring parties to call Atom Physical Therapy if they have questions about whether this evaluation is appropriate for their particular needs.
Schedule Functional Capacity & Limitation Testing
Schedule your evaluation online or call Atom Physical Therapy if you would like to discuss the purpose of the testing before booking.