Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE)
Objective testing of a person's physical ability to perform work tasks for return-to-work and disability decisions.
About this care
A Functional Capacity Evaluation, or FCE, is a structured set of physical tests that measure what a person can safely do. It looks at strength, endurance, range of motion, and the ability to perform work-related activities such as lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and positional tasks.
An FCE is performed by a licensed therapist who observes performance and records the results. A key part of the evaluation is consistency of effort. The therapist looks for signs that the person is giving a genuine, full effort, and the report comments on that consistency, which affects how the results are interpreted.
The evaluation usually takes several hours and can be scheduled over more than one day when needed. When it is finished, the therapist compiles a written report and sends it to the party that requested it, such as a physician, employer, case manager, or insurer.
Who it is for
- Injured workers preparing to return to work after an injury
- Physicians deciding on return-to-work status or restrictions
- Case managers and workers' compensation insurers
- Employers needing to know an employee's safe work capacity
- Workers and attorneys involved in disability claims
- People needing documentation of physical abilities and limitations
What to expect
- 1
The evaluation can run several hours and may be scheduled across more than one day.
- 2
You complete measured tasks such as lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and positional activities.
- 3
The therapist observes effort, pain behaviors, and any limitations and records the data.
- 4
You should tell the therapist about pain, dizziness, or fatigue, and why you stop any task.
- 5
The therapist compiles a written report with findings and recommendations and sends it to the requesting party.
How it can help
Common questions
Who refers a person for an FCE?
Referrals commonly come from a physician, employer, case manager, insurer, or attorney involved in a return-to-work or disability matter.
How long does an FCE take?
Most take several hours and can be scheduled over more than one day depending on the case and the tasks being evaluated.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable, loose clothing and athletic shoes, and bring any brace, cane, or other device you use, plus relevant medical records or a job description if you have them.
Ready to feel better?
Call either location to schedule, or reach out with questions about your insurance and benefits. We are glad to help you figure out the next step.