FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY EVALUATION

The Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a standardized assessment that documents an individual’s abilities to perform work related activities and determine return-to-work potential. The FCE replaces educated guesswork with objective data. Standard activities include:

Walking Bending/Stooping

Standing Stair climbing

Lifting from all levels Sitting

Carrying Dexterity/Coordination

Squatting/Kneeling Crawling

Cardiovascular conditioning Hand grip strength

Balance Symptom magnification

Step ladder climbing Body mechanics

Pushing/Pulling Elevated work capacity

In addition to the above tests, information is provided regarding consistency of effort, attendance and reports of overt pain behavior.