What are the elements of a functional capacity evaluation?

A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a series of tests designed to measure physical strength, ''range of motion'', stamina, and tolerance to functional activities, including lifting and carrying. These tests can be used to evaluate work tolerance, and the necessity for work restrictions. Related terms include "Physical Capacities Evaluation" (PCE), "Functional Capacity Assessment" (FCA) or "Work Capacity Evaluation."

An evaluator skilled in Functional Capacity Evaluation will use a battery of standardized tests designed around key factors that include diagnosis, impairment, pain and functional limitation, referral questions, and, in some instances, the case resolution goal. The FCE's value to the injured individual is the focus on functional ability instead of the pain limitation associated with an impairment. Functional Capacity Evaluation is not only a useful clinical tool, but a baseline for industry-standard results that clearly define an individual's transition from injury to employment, and from disability to deployment.

Therefore the evaluator SHOULD ONLY use tests that have to do with the specific individual's diagnosis and return-to-work goals or job demands:

Commonly used tests include activities like treadmill or step exercises, grip testing, dexterity tests, range of motion tests, as well as questionnaires. This list is not exhaustive and there are other tests as well.

In a vocational rehabilitation setting the results of Functional Capacity Evaluation are typically used to develop return-to-work plans, as the basis of an offer of alternative employment, or as the foundation for a feasibility development plan (work-focused rehabilitation); results are a sound framework for developing a Temporary Alternative Duty plan.

In a military setting the results of the Functional Capacity Evaluation are used to evaluate progress as the injured soldier transitions back to the force in the usual and customary military occupational specialty (MOS) or to measure the physical ability to reintegrate into a new specialty. It can also be used in preparation for a medical evaluation board or in transition from active duty into Veterans Administration services.
An FCE considers speed, flexibility, endurance, skill and strength through the use of functional testing, MTM, and standardized measurements to assess job-fit status. To do this assessment, the following activities are usually performed, however the evaluator SHOULD ONLY be making you participate in tests that have to do with your diagnosis and your return-to-work goals or job demands:

Lifting, Pushing, Pulling, Carrying, Cardiovascular activities like treadmill or step exercises, Grip testing, Dexterity tests, Range of motion tests, as well as questionnaires to assess the reliability of your reports of pain/disability. This list is not exhaustive and there are other tests as well.

Throughout these activities the evaluator should also be assessing physical effort and keeping an eye on an clinical inconsistencies that don't match up with your pain reports.