Functional Capacity Evaluation

A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a systematic process of assessing an individual's physical capacities and functional abilities. AOTA (2005)It is a range of testing utilized to indicate objective findings of pain and function by using range of motion, manual muscle testing, computerized tests, pain scales and a range of other examinations only limited by the evaluator’s ability.

• The FCE should only be an objective measure of a person’s physical abilities to perform work…Lechner et al. (1994)
• The FCE determines the individual's ability to safely return to work full time or on modified duty.
• The FCE can be preventative by providing accurate work restrictions, job modifications, or reasonable accommodations that the physician cannot establish in a five minute evaluation.
• The FCE can help rate permanent disability with the AMA Guidelines.

Why order an FCE?

• Stalled Cases
• Return to usual and customary duty
• Motives: Malingering and fabrication of injury for secondary gains
• Injuries affecting employment

Appropriate or Inappropriate Clients

• The client should have no medical contraindications: Chronic clients only, no acute injuries!
• The FCE should meets or exceed the physical requirements of the job and is the client considered fit to return to work
• Should not be done if there is any risk of harm to the client
• The client is currently engaged in a treatment intervention for the same injury (exceptions apply)

Downloads

• Sample Report for an Inconsistent FCE patient
• Sample Report for a Consistent FCE patient