PT Works

Physical Therapy and

Functional Capacity Evaluations

 

  A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a systematic approach that assesses an individual’s physical and functional abilities.  The FCE matches ones performance levels to the demands of a specific job, work activity, or occupation.  The FCE will establish the physical level of work an individual can perform.  It is a useful tool in determining job placement, job accommodation, or return to work after injury or illness. 

May 2007

Functional Capacity Evaluations are currently being offered in our Latham office.

  The FCE may be used to:

· Determine a person’s ability to safely return to work full time or on modified duty

· Determine if work restrictions, job modifications, or reasonable accommodations are necessary to prevent further injury

· Determine the extent to which impairments exists, or the degree of physical disability for compensation purposes

· Predict the potential ability to work following acute rehabilitations or a work hardening/conditioning program

  The FCE assesses an individual’s flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, cardiovascular condition, and body mechanics.  It typically focuses on a job goal, rather than individual interests and aptitudes.  At Community Care, a   licensed physical therapist trained to administer FCE’s will perform the evaluation.  The FCE typically takes four hours.  Our FCE is an effective tool used to determine whether there is a match between the individual’s functional capabilities, and the physical demands of work. 

  Who should be referred for an FCE? 

· Individuals who have achieved maximum medical improvements but continue to have issues related to work and re-injury.

· Individuals who need quantification or the physical capacities for determination of disability status

· Individuals who need their function quantified prior to vocational job search and/or return to work

· Individuals who require quantification of their physical function for medial legal reasons.

711 Troy-Schenectady Road

Suite 103

Latham, NY 12110

 

Please contact us by phone or fax to schedule an FCE: 518.783.3110 x3199 (phone)

518.220.9506 (fax)