Physical Performance Tests and Functional Capacity Evaluation

Physical Performance Tests

A Physical Performance Test (PPT) can be administered to determine an employee's current level of function. A PPT is most commonly used to determine appropriate work level for non-work related injured/restricted workers. PPTs may also be used once an injured worker has been through full rehabilitation, to determine the individuals final work status. In either case, the results of the PPT can be compared to the Functional Job Tasks to determine if the worker meets the criteria for full return to work duties or if work restrictions or accommodations are necessary. The test is generally 90 minutes in length.

Functional Capacity Evaluations

Functional Capacity Evaluations are individualized tests that determine an individual's physical capabilities and/or limitations.

Our therapists are trained and certified to perform FCE's using an approach that provides consistent and reliable results.

A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is provided for those employees who are injured and are not recovering and/or have reached a plateau in their recovery. It is a standard test with the specific objective of providing criteria for what the employee can do. (This test is especially helpful in determining possible disability issues). Time required is between 3 - 6 hours and may be administered over 1 or 2 days.

The most common use for an FCE is in determining an individual's functional status once they have recovered to their full extent from an injury. FCEs can also be used in cases of determining disability status, job matching, or determining what alternative work the individual may be qualified to perform.