Functional Capacity Evaluation

At CVMC Rehabilitation Therapy, Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE) are performed by a licensed physical or occupational therapist. An FCE is a comprehensive, objective test of an individual’s ability to perform work related tasks, following a work related injury.

The purpose of an FCE is to assess the individual’s physical capabilities by testing safe, maximum workload capacity while accurately documenting these observations. An individual’s physical abilities and limitations are compared to the physical and functional findings.

Information gained through an FCE provides important insight and serves as a critical tool for doctors to use when deciding if and at what level an individual is capable of returning to work.

Cognitive Functional Capacity Evaluation

While traditional FCE protocols typically address physical limitations and the effect on function, physical durability, and employability, they do not naturally accommodate for the broad range of cognitive and/or behavioral challenges faced by individuals with traumatic brain injury or mental health conditions.

The Cognitive Functional Capacity Evaluation (Cog FCE) is a comprehensive set of objective measures that account for the physical, functional cognitive, perceptual/sensory, communicative, psycho-emotional, and behavioral issues faced by these diagnostic groups.

What to Expect at Your FCE or Cog FCE

The FCE and Cog FCE are performed one-on-one between the therapist and client. It takes several hours within a one- or two-day period, and can be physically and cognitively challenging for the client. During the FCE and Cog FCE, the client may receive continuous cueing and feedback to correct unsafe movements, body mechanics, or techniques throughout the exam.

The FCE and Cog FCE are integral parts of the return-to-work process. Positive feedback about Functional Capacity Evaluations and Cognitive Functional Capacity Evaluations has come from professional areas such as industry, insurance, workers’ compensation, law firms and medicine. It is the foundation for an effective work injury management system. When a comprehensive, objective FCE or Cog FCE is put into optimum use it will assist all who need functional work information.

Our Certified FCE and Cog FCE Staff

Our Functional Capacity Evaluations are provided by licensed physical and occupational therapists who are certified functional evaluators. Cognitive Functional Capacity Evaluations are completed by occupational therapists with extensive Cog FCE training.