Functional Capacity Evaluation

An functional capacity evaluation, often referred to as "FCE" is a comprehensive, standardized assessment that measures a patient’s physical capacity to perform work-related tasks. This includes evaluating strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, and tolerance for activities such as lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and prolonged sitting or standing to name a few.

FCEs play a critical role in the workers’ compensation process by:

• Determining Work Readiness: Establishing whether an individual can safely return to their previous job or requires modified duties 
• Guiding Return-to-Work Plans: Providing clear recommendations for employers, case managers, and physicians 
• Reducing Risk of Re-Injury: Ensuring employees do not return to work prematurely or beyond their physical limits 
• Supporting Objective Decision-Making: Delivering defensible, evidence-based reports for claims and legal considerations 

Our evaluations are conducted by highly trained physical therapists and typically last several hours. During the assessment, patients will:

• Perform a series of standardized physical tasks simulating job activities
• Be monitored for consistency of effort and safe movement patterns 
• Receive rest periods as needed to ensure safety and accuracy 

At the conclusion of the evaluation, we provide a detailed report outlining:

• Functional abilities and limitations 
• Effort and reliability of results 
• Job-specific recommendations 
• Return-to-work status and restrictions, if necessary 

• Injured workers navigating the return-to-work process 
• Employers seeking clarity on employee capabilities 
• Physicians making medical and occupational decisions 
• Case managers and attorneys requiring objective documentation 

We believe every individual deserves a clear path forward after injury. Our FCE process is designed to be thorough, objective, and patient-centered, helping all parties make informed decisions that prioritize safety, recovery, and long-term success.