Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)

Objective Functional Testing for Hand & Upper Extremity Cases

A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a structured assessment used to determine an individual’s physical abilities, and consistency of effort following an injury. At Comprehensive Hand Surgery Center, FCEs are performed by our licensed Physical and Occupational Therapists, with clinical oversight from Dr. David Galpern.

Our evaluations are designed to provide clear, defensible information that helps attorneys, insurers, employers, and case managers understand a patient’s true functional status. 

What Our FCEs Assess

Our therapists evaluate a wide range of functional capabilities, including: 

  • Strength, range of motion, and endurance
  • Dexterity, coordination, and fine-motor performance
  • Ability to perform job-specific or task-specific activities
  • Consistency of effort
  • Markers of truthfulness and compliance
  • Functional limitations impacting work or activities of daily living
  • Appropriateness of current restrictions and potential for modified or full-duty return

Each evaluation is individualized to ensure relevance to the patient’s occupation, reported symptoms, and medical history. 

Why Choose CHSC for FCEs?

Focused Expertise in the Upper Extremity

Our therapy team specializes in assessing hand, wrist, forearm, and arm conditions, which allows for more precise and reliable evaluations compared to general providers. 

Surgeon-Interpreted Reporting

After the therapist completes the evaluation, Dr. Galpern personally interprets the results and writes the final FCE report. 

This approach ensures: 

  • Clear, medically grounded conclusions
  • Consistent analysis across cases
  • Stronger credibility for legal and insurance use
  • A unified opinion that incorporates both functional testing and clinical expertise

Clear and Well-Structured Reports

Each report is clear, organized, and designed to communicate functional findings in a practical, understandable way. The results help guide return-to-work planning, case evaluation, and next step decisions. 

Discuss Your FCE needs

To request an FCE or begin the referral process, please contact our office: 

Phone: (804) 506-3050

Email: in**@*****sc.com

You may also submit your request through our Medical-Legal Contact Form

Fill our our Medical Legal Contact Form

 

Comprehensive Hand Surgery
2819 North Parham Road Richmond Suite 100, VA 23294 Get Directions