What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive, standardized test that measures an employee’s physical abilities in relation to specific job demands. At Buffalo Ergonomics, we provide FCE testing in Buffalo, NY to help employers, physicians, and insurers make safe, informed return-to-work and disability claim decisions.
It answers critical questions like:
- Can this employee safely return to work?
- Are job modifications or restrictions necessary?
- Is the employee’s physical capacity consistent with their medical condition or reported symptoms?
By providing objective, measurable results, an FCE helps employers, physicians, and insurers make informed decisions that protect both the worker and the workplace.
What is Measured in an FCE?
Our occupational health specialists assess a wide range of functional abilities, including:
- Strength testing (lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling)
- Range of motion & flexibility
- Positional tolerances (sitting, standing, kneeling, climbing, reaching overhead)
- Endurance testing for stamina and work capacity
- Job-specific functional tasks to replicate real work demands
- Consistency of effort to ensure accurate results
Each assessment is customized to align with the physical demands of the employee’s actual role.
Who Needs an FCE?
An FCE exam is commonly required in:
- Workers’ compensation cases to determine safe return-to-work
- Disability claims to provide objective, medical evidence of limitations
- Post-injury recovery to establish job modifications or restrictions
- Return-to-work programs for employees transitioning after injury
- Job placement decisions where physical capacity must match essential job duties
Benefits of an FCE
For Employers & Insurers:
- Objective, data-driven reports reduce risk and claim costs
- Evidence-based return-to-work decisions
- Supports workplace safety and productivity
For Employees & Providers:
- Clear understanding of physical abilities and restrictions
- Peace of mind for safe return-to-work
- Supports recovery and reduces risk of reinjury
Why Choose Buffalo Ergonomics for FCE Testing?
At Buffalo Ergonomics, FCEs are performed by licensed, experienced professionals who specialize in occupational health. We:
- Use validated, industry-standard testing protocols
- Customize each evaluation to reflect the employee’s real job duties
- Deliver clear, objective reports that are easy for employers, insurers, and physicians to interpret
- Provide recommendations for return-to-work, job modification, or further rehabilitation when needed
Getting Started
If your business, physician, or insurer requires an FCE, Buffalo Ergonomics can help. We provide timely scheduling, professional evaluations, and detailed reporting to support confident decision-making.
Contact us today to schedule a Functional Capacity Evaluation or to learn more about how this service can benefit your organization.
Your Partner in Workforce Health
At Buffalo Ergonomics, we help businesses and employees in Western New York stay safe, strong, and ready for work. Our specialized programs focus on preventing injuries, supporting recovery, and ensuring workers can meet the physical and functional demands of their jobs.
Location: 235 Highland Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14223
Phone: 716-873-7263
Fax: 716-873-7290
Email: info@mytrilogy.org
