Core Physical Therapy
Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) in Evansville
Return-to-Work Confidence Starts with Objective, Reliable Results
When a work injury occurs, knowing exactly what an employee can and cannot do safely is critical. That’s where a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) comes in. At Core Physical Therapy in Evansville, we provide comprehensive, data-driven FCEs that help employers, physicians, and insurance professionals make clear, informed return-to-work decisions.
What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
An FCE (Functional Capacity Evaluation) is an in-depth assessment that measures a person’s physical abilities and job-related functional skills following an injury or illness. Using standardized, evidence-based testing protocols, we evaluate strength, flexibility, endurance, and postural tolerance to determine an individual’s safe level of physical performance.
Our licensed physical therapists use professional-grade equipment and objective scoring methods to ensure accurate, defensible results—ideal for workers’ compensation, disability claims, or return-to-work planning.
Why Choose Core Physical Therapy for FCEs?
- Trusted by Employers and Case Managers
We work closely with local employers, adjusters, and occupational health providers across Evansville to deliver timely, actionable reports. - Clear, Defensible Documentation
Our FCE reports are comprehensive, clear, and defensible—crafted to withstand medical, legal, and insurance review. - Experienced Clinicians
Our physical therapists have extensive experience with work-related injuries, industrial rehab, and ergonomic analysis, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and consistency. - Objective, Real-World Testing
Each FCE simulates actual job demands—helping to determine whether an individual can safely return to full duty, light duty, or requires further rehabilitation.
Who Benefits from an FCE?
- Employers: Verify readiness for work and avoid re-injury.
- Case Managers: Gain reliable data to guide claim decisions.
- Attorneys and Insurance Adjusters: Obtain objective evidence for documentation and case resolution.
- Employees and Injured Workers: Understand physical limitations and progress toward recovery.
What to Expect During an FCE
Each FCE typically takes 2–4 hours to complete, depending on the job requirements and the worker’s condition. The evaluation includes:
- Strength and flexibility testing
- Lifting, carrying, and positional tolerance assessments
- Endurance and postural analysis
- Job-specific task simulation
Once complete, you’ll receive a detailed written report outlining physical capabilities, limitations, and recommendations for safe work return or ongoing treatment needs.
FCE + Work Conditioning Integration
At Core Physical Therapy, we also offer Work Conditioning and Work Hardening programs to help injured workers progress from recovery to full job readiness. If an FCE shows a gap between current ability and job demands, our team can seamlessly transition the individual into a customized rehabilitation plan.
Partner with Core Physical Therapy
When you need accurate, objective, and defensible FCE results in Evansville, Core Physical Therapy delivers. We take pride in supporting local employers, workers’ comp programs, and industrial health professionals with the highest standards of care and reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Functional Capacity Evaluations in Evansville
How long does it take to get FCE results after testing?
Most FCE reports are completed within 3-5 business days after your evaluation. At Core Physical Therapy, we prioritize timely turnaround because we understand return-to-work decisions are often time-sensitive. Rush reports can be arranged for urgent cases involving workers’ compensation deadlines or pending claim resolutions.
Can an FCE help me get my workers’ comp claim approved?
Yes. An FCE provides objective, medical-grade documentation of your physical limitations and capabilities—exactly what insurance carriers and claims adjusters need to make informed decisions. Our evaluations meet industry standards used by workers’ compensation boards and can support both initial claims and appeals when paired with physician recommendations.
What’s the difference between an FCE and an Independent Medical Examination (IME)?
An IME is a medical evaluation performed by a physician to assess diagnosis and treatment, while an FCE is a physical performance test conducted by licensed physical therapists to measure actual functional abilities. FCEs focus on what you can do physically (lift, stand, walk, carry), making them essential for return-to-work clearances and job accommodation decisions. Many cases require both.
Will I fail an FCE if I can’t do everything?
No. An FCE isn’t a pass/fail test—it’s an objective measurement of your current capabilities. The goal is to document what you can safely do now, identify limitations, and provide recommendations for work modifications, light duty assignments, or continued rehabilitation. Honest effort during testing ensures accurate results that protect both you and your employer.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
Typically yes. FCEs are usually ordered by treating physicians, case managers, or attorneys as part of workers’ compensation cases, disability claims, or return-to-work planning. If you’re unsure whether you need a referral, contact Core Physical Therapy—we can help coordinate with your medical team or claims administrator.
What jobs or injuries require a Functional Capacity Evaluation near Evansville?
FCEs are commonly required for manufacturing, warehouse, construction, healthcare, and transportation workers in the Evansville, Janesville, and Brodhead areas. Typical injuries include back injuries, shoulder/rotator cuff tears, knee injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and post-surgical cases where physical demands need verification before returning to work.
Ready to schedule an FCE?
Contact our Evansville clinic today to discuss your case or refer a patient.
Call or schedule an evaluation.
Awesome place. I would tell people to go there for therapy. Everyone there makes you feel like your important. They all know who you are and greet you when you walk in. They have coffee and water if you like. And are willing to get that for you. They make you feel comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. Hailey,and Francesca are two of the therapists. Their awesome..!
Daniel Vogel
Highly Recommend!! We are so lucky to have Core so close to home! When I hurt my ankle my doctor wanted me to start PT. With a busy schedule I wasn’t interested in driving out of town to go. I contacted Core after receiving a recommendation from a friend. Best choice I’ve made. You are treated like family from the moment you walk in the door. It’s easy to schedule appointments and they can usually accommodate my days and time preferences when scheduling, which is much appreciated. Look no further for your PT needs! You will not be disappointed.
Abigail Farnsworth