Empower provides Functional Capacity Evaluations for individuals throughout Charlotte, Concord, Huntersville, Matthews, Gastonia, and the surrounding areas. 

Objective, evidence-based evaluations designed to assess work capacity, functional abilities and physical limitations.

✔ Full Body Evaluations

✔ Upper Extremity Specific FCEs

✔ 48-hour Report Turnaround

✔ Attorney, Physician & Employer Referrals

What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive assessment used to determine an individual's physical abilities, work tolerances, and functional limitations. FCEs are commonly requested by physicians, attorneys, employers, case managers, and workers' compensation representatives to assist with return-to-work decisions and disability determinations 

SERVICES

WHY CHOOSE EMPOWER?

EMPOWER provides Functional Capacity Evaluations performed by an Occupational Therapist with orthopedic and upper extremity specialization.

• COMT-UE Certified

• Objective testing methods

• Detailed reporting

• Upper extremity expertise

• Independent findings

• Reports completed within 48 hours

FOR ATTORNEYS AND CASE MANAGERS

Our evaluations provide objective information regarding functional abilities, work tolerances, and physical limitations to assist with:

• Workers' compensation cases

• Disability claims

• Return-to-work decisions

• Litigation support

• Vocational planning

Reports are completed promptly and include clear documentation of findings.

FAQs

How long does an FCE take?

4-6 hours; be sure to bring water, a snack, and comfortable clothes to bend, walk. Sneakers or work shoes are most appropriate

Who can refer for an FCE?

Lawyers, doctors, work compensation case managers or adjusters

What should I wear to my FCE?

Comfortable clothes as if you are going to the gym to work out

How quickly are reports completed?

48 hours

Do you offer Upper Extremity FCEs?

Yes! Upper Extremity Functional Capacity Evaluations (UE FCEs) provide valuable information that may not be fully captured during a traditional whole-body Functional Capacity Evaluation. While a whole-body FCE focuses on overall physical abilities such as lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and positional tolerances, a UE FCE offers a more detailed assessment of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. This specialized evaluation examines grip strength, pinch strength, dexterity, coordination, sensation, swelling, and fine motor skills that are essential for many work-related tasks. Even when an individual demonstrates adequate overall strength and endurance, subtle deficits in hand function, coordination, or dexterity can significantly impact their ability to perform job duties safely and efficiently. By incorporating upper extremity-specific testing, UE FCEs provide a more comprehensive understanding of functional limitations and work capacity, helping physicians, attorneys, employers, and case managers make informed decisions regarding return-to-work readiness, accommodations, and ongoing treatment needs.