Functional Capacity Evaluations

Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE) at ATW in Utica, NY

If you sustained an injury at work and are concerned about going back to work at full capacity, we can help. FCEs can help determine if you are ready to work, if you need accommodations, or if you need a change in work status. FCEs are scientifically developed and are an objective, reliable and valid process to measure a worker’s physical capabilities and tolerances. We use standardized protocols . These standardized protocols determine the level of participation and activity that is right for the client following rehabilitation, thus providing the highest probability for return to work without re-injury.

What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?

A functional capacity evaluation is a set of tests and observations that are combined to determine the ability of the person being tested to function in a variety of ways. Often the test is performed of someone who has sustained an injury to return to previous or future employment. The FCE will help determine employment abilities in an objective manner. If you can return to work, an FCE can help determine whether you must return to work in a reduced capacity or whether certain accommodations must be made.

FCE’s are often required by insurers when an insured person applies for disability payments or a disability pension in the case of permanent disability. The FCE can objectively quantify the severity and extent of an injury and is vital when filing a claim. A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) can be an integral part of this process as it evaluates an individual’s capacity to perform work-related activities and functions.

The FCE process compares the individual’s health status, and body functions and structures to the demands of the job and the work environment.

Benefits of a Functional Capacity Evaluation at ATW

We determine the level of participation and activity that is appropriate for the client for returning to work without re-injury
We provide objective, reliable, honest assessments using standardized peer reviewed testing procedures.
Our FCEs are in compliance with the most current versions of the APTA Standards of Practice for Physical Therapy, the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice, the AOTA Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, AMA Guide to the Evaluation of Functional Ability: how to request, interpret, and apply functional capacity evaluations, and Current Concepts in Functional Capacity Evaluations: A Best Practices Guideline Adopted April 30, 2018, APTA.
We provide legally defensible information for referral sources, such as clients, physicians and lawyers.
We provide clear, concise, timely reports that provide objective data specific to an individual’s physical capabilities and occupation. Reports include peer reviewed references and are legally defensible.
Our FCEs are based on the Dictionary of Occupational Titles – Residual Functional Capacity (DOT-RFC) Battery. These Battery tests over 30 different job related tasks (such as climbing, balancing, stooping, crawling, walking, etc.) that clients may need to perform for any given occupation. The battery measures client’s functional capacity based on peer reviewed norms. This provides the mechanism to determine the clients ability to perform in a safe and dependable manner.

What are the Components of a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A Functional Capacity Exam is an assessment that typically includes the following areas:

Vital Signs, Physical Activity Readiness, Medical History Review
Flexibility / Range of Motion
Physical Strength Testing
Mobility Testing
Functional Activity Testing
Material Handling Testing
Work Simulation Testing
Sensory Testing
Balance Testing
Coordination Testing
Cardiorespiratory Fitness Testing
Pain Monitoring

Learn more about FCE’s here.

Learn more about ATW’s other Rehabilitation and Wellness Programs here.