Functional Capacity Exams (FCE)

A Functional Capacity Exam, commonly referred to as an FCE, is a comprehensive, standardized evaluation that objectively measures a patient’s physical abilities and limitations. It assesses what a person can and cannot safely do in terms of strength, endurance, flexibility, and functional movement.
FCEs are most commonly used to determine a patient’s ability to return to work following an injury or illness, to support disability claims, or to help establish appropriate physical restrictions for job duties. They provide an objective, documented record that can be used by physicians, employers, insurance providers, and legal professionals.

What Does an FCE Evaluate?

A Functional Capacity Exam at Arlington PT is performed by a licensed physical therapist and typically includes assessment of:
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling capacity
Sitting, standing, and walking tolerance
Bending, reaching, and overhead activity
Grip strength and hand function
Overall endurance and activity tolerance
Pain behavior and its effect on functional performance
Consistency of effort and reliability of results

Who Needs a Functional Capacity Exam?

Patients recovering from a work-related injury and preparing to return to their job
Individuals applying for disability benefits or involved in workers’ compensation claims
Patients whose physician has requested objective documentation of their physical abilities
Employers seeking to determine appropriate job placement or duty modifications for an employee
Legal cases involving personal injury or disability

What to Expect

An FCE typically takes between two and four hours to complete, depending on the scope of the evaluation. It involves a series of standardized physical tasks performed under the observation and guidance of your therapist. The results are compiled into a detailed written report that documents your functional abilities and any identified limitations.
The process is safe, structured, and designed to give an accurate picture of your current functional capacity, not to push you beyond your limits. Your therapist will explain each task clearly and monitor your responses throughout.

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Real Stories. Real Recovery.

Hear from patients throughout Arlington and the DFW area who have trusted Arlington PT for compassionate care, advanced treatment, and personalized recovery plans.
Very effective therapists, especially Jason and T.J. Their different styles worked together to maximize the recovery of my strength and range of motion.
- Dan Linehan
Started here with some leg/knee issues after hurting myself while training for a half marathon. After working the Laney and TJ for a few weeks, I’m back to 100%! They were very knowledgeable, professional, and personable and made the recovery process as enjoyable as it could be. They did a great job of listening to me and addressing the cause of the issue and not just the symptoms. They also equipped me with tools to help me stay healthier in the future. I definitely recommend coming here for your PT needs!
- Jesse Martindale
They have provided me with excellent help with an injury. Everyone who works here has been kind and supportive throughout the process. For anyone with tennis related injuries especially, Guillermo is the go-to person.
- Gulzeb Niazi
Super friendly staff. I'm not sure if I worked with all the physical therapists, but quite a few of them at least. They helped me strengthen my shoulder so I could get active again. Can't recommend enough.
- Alan Martin
Very kind and attentive to my physical needs.
- Linda Willis
I have had two rotator cuff repairs, knee surgery and foot surgery. And this is the ONLY place I have ever came the staff is so compationate to their patients. Thank you all for everything you do My the Lord continue to bless this establishment.
- Mary Richmond

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Our team at Arlington PT is here to help. Whether you’re dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, or looking to improve your movement and quality of life, we’ll build a personalized plan designed around your goals.