Services

A Work Capacity Evaluation/Functional Capacity Evaluation (WCE/FCE) is a comprehensive assessment to determine an individual’s ability to perform physical and work-related tasks. It uses standardized tests, exercises, and simulated work activities to measure a person’s physical abilities, limitations, and tolerances to establish a baseline for return-to-work decisions, rehabilitation planning, or disability claims.

The WCE/FCE process involves standardized testing to objectively measure strength, endurance, flexibility, and other physical capacities; simulated work tasks to mimic the demands of generic or specific jobs, such as lifting, pushing, pulling, and sustained sitting or standing; evaluation of functional abilities including mobility, communication, and other activities of daily living in addition to work-specific tasks.

The WCE/FCE typically encompasses an interview, screening, history, pain level assessment, and goals for independence and return to work. Assessment reports address various aspects of functioning, such as if a person is ready to safely return to their previous job; return to work with modifications, accommodations, or at a reduced capacity; physical job parameters; the need for specific rehabilitation or training, like strengthening or manual handling techniques; and safe lifting tolerances and positional tolerances. We work with employers, insurance providers, attorneys, physicians, vocational rehabilitation and other agencies to provide state of the art assessments of functioning and the world of work.