What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

Have you been asked to complete a functional capacity evaluation for your workers’ comp claim? The outcome of that exam could influence decisions about your job and your benefits, so you should understand what the test might mean for your case. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A functional capacity evaluation (FCE) is a set of tests that measures your physical ability to perform work-related tasks. In Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims, FCEs can determine whether you can return to your job or if you need different work restrictions. The evaluations provide objective data about strength, endurance, flexibility, and mobility. Insurers, doctors, and employers often use the results to guide treatment decisions and work assignments after an occupational injury.

What Happens During Functional Capacity Evaluations?

During an FCE, a licensed evaluator observes you as you complete tasks that reflect the physical demands you might face at work. These can include lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, bending, or reaching to assess your functional abilities. The evaluator might also assess grip strength, range of motion, and how long you can sit, stand, or walk. The evaluator documents how your body responds, including whether pain, fatigue, or limited mobility might prevent you from performing certain tasks that your job demands.

When Should You Expect to Get a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

Your doctor could ask you to complete an FCE if they need more details about your work limitations or recovery progress. Your employer or their insurer might also request an FCE before they decide on your return-to-work status, modified duties, or ongoing benefits. An FCE might occur after your condition has stabilized, once you reach maximum medical improvement, or if disputes arise about whether you can safely handle your former job responsibilities.

Where Are FCE Tests Performed?

Most FCEs take place in rehabilitation centers, physical therapy clinics, or hospitals with specialized testing areas. These facilities provide the equipment and space necessary for a controlled evaluation of work-related tasks. Testing locations must meet specific standards to ensure accurate and consistent results. Employers and their insurers often choose FCE test sites, but workers’ compensation lawyers can review those arrangements and push back if they seem unsuitable.

Can the FCE Be Used Against You?

An FCE could work against you if the results suggest that you can do more than you truly can. Insurers might use your FCE results to argue that you no longer need benefits, even if you have ongoing pain or limitations. If the evaluator’s report suggests that you exaggerated or that your efforts were inconsistent, the insurer could use that to challenge your claim. A workers’ comp lawyer can review your FCE report, question its accuracy, and push back against unfair interpretations if necessary.

How Can a Functional Capacity Examination Help Your Case?

An FCE could support your claim by providing objective evidence of what you can and cannot do after an injury. Doctors, insurers, and judges may rely on the results to confirm your work restrictions or prove that you cannot safely return to your old job. An accurate evaluation can document lasting impairments, strengthen your case for continued benefits, and prevent premature return-to-work demands.

What Is a Failed FCE?

A failed FCE occurs when an evaluator concludes that you could not complete the physical tasks or did not put forth full effort. Sometimes, failure reflects genuine limits caused by your injury. Other times, evaluators or insurers might interpret it as a lack of cooperation. A lawyer can explain the outcome of your FCE, highlight medical records that support your claim, and challenge any unfair assumptions.

Don’t Try to Fake a Functional Capacity Evaluation

Faking or exaggerating during an FCE could damage your case. Evaluators look for consistency in how you perform tasks, and insurers often monitor reports for signs of dishonesty. If they believe you exaggerated, they might argue that you no longer deserve benefits. That’s why you should always be truthful about your pain, limitations, and efforts. Honest performance protects your credibility and gives your lawyer stronger grounds to fight for your workers’ comp benefits.

FAQs about FCEs

FCEs can carry significant weight in workers’ comp claims, so it helps to understand how they might affect your case, who conducts them, and what happens if you cannot complete one successfully.

Are workers’ comp settlements determined by an FCE?

An FCE can influence a settlement, but it does not decide the outcome by itself. The evaluation provides detailed information about your physical ability, which insurers and judges may consider. However, other medical records, doctors’ opinions, and legal arguments also matter. Your lawyer can help you argue for a fair settlement that reflects your actual condition.

Who performs a functional capacity evaluation?

Licensed professionals such as physical therapists or occupational therapists typically perform FCEs. These providers have specialized training to assess strength, flexibility, endurance, and other physical skills. They must meet certain qualifications and follow standardized procedures to keep results consistent and reliable. Your lawyer can review an evaluator’s credentials and, if necessary, question whether the test followed proper standards.

What happens if you fail a functional capacity evaluation?

An FCE failure usually means the evaluator concluded that you could not complete the required tasks or that you did not put forth an honest effort. This could hurt your claim if insurers suspect that you exaggerated or refused to cooperate. However, failure could also confirm genuine limitations that prevent you from working. A lawyer can compare the FCE with your medical records, point out unfair assumptions, and fight to protect your benefits.

Contact the Workers’ Comp Lawyers at Calhoon and Kaminsky P.C. For Help

If you need help with a functional capacity evaluation or any part of your workers’ compensation claim in Pennsylvania, Calhoon and Kaminsky P.C. is here to help. Our team focuses exclusively on workers’ compensation cases and has secured more than $221 million for injured workers statewide. We bring decades of combined litigation experience to the table and won’t hesitate to go to trial if necessary.

It costs nothing to meet with us to discuss your case, and you will not owe any attorney fees unless we win compensation for you. Contact us today to arrange your free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help you.