A functional capacity evaluation, or FCE, is a test of an individual's ability to perform work-related tasks.
FCEs are known by other terms, such as: physical performance testing, work capacity evaluation, physical ability testing, etc. FCEs typically include testing to determine the worker’s ability to handle material (weight), walking and balance abilities, and positional tolerances such as sitting, standing, bending or squatting.
FCE Reports
Our partnership with WorkWell Systems, Inc., has permitted us to use a nationally recognized system that is standardized and was developed through research and 15 years of experience from many of the leaders in the industry.
Our reports include substantial amounts of information related to the client’s effort and cooperation, consistency of performance, subjective pain reports, safety, quality of movement, abilities/strengths, limitations, potential barriers to return to work and U.S. Department of Labor physical demand level. These areas of information are derived from extensive assessment over a three-hour time period and can be customized to the needs of the referral source or client.
Please note that therapists cannot complete disability paperwork.
What to expect
You should expect a rigorous physical and functional exam of your abilities. Please be open and honest with the clinician. It’s common to ask you to do an activity consistent with your occupation, but far above your current activity level. However, we will test to make sure you can be safe and limit exposure to further injury.
Our physical and occupational therapists have been formally trained in a kinesiophysical approach which permits them to quickly and accurately:
- Identify maximum objective strength of an individual
- Identify tolerance levels to activities based on objective physical observations
- Utilize safe testing procedures to ensure no injuries during the testing situations; ensures the client is aware of the difference between safe and unsafe procedures
- Link functional deficiencies to physical causes
- Identify submaximal efforts and the presence of self-limiting behavior
- Provide a clear objective summary report that includes therapist observations, conclusions and recommendations regarding work
Functional capacity evaluations are offered at:
- Memorial Therapy Care on Engineering Drive
- Memorial Therapy Center in Jacksonville (located inside JMH)