Confirm what this evaluation is being asked to document.
The referral question determines which physical tasks are relevant and who should receive the report.
An FCE may include selected lifting, carrying, reaching, walking, positional tolerance, grip or other tasks. Not every evaluation uses every test.
The evaluator should explain the expected schedule, clothing, records, break process, symptom communication, fees and report recipient before testing.
Questions to settle before the evaluation date.
Testing is easier to prepare for when administrative and practical details are confirmed early.
Purpose and referral question
Know what decision the observed performance is intended to inform.
Schedule and physical tasks
Confirm the expected duration, breaks and types of activity relevant to the referral.
Report and authorized recipient
Understand who receives the report, how consent is documented and when delivery is expected.
What happens on the FCE testing day.
The evaluator reviews readiness and instructions before asking the participant to complete selected tasks.
Check in and review consent
Confirm identity, referral purpose, current information, report recipient and the testing process.
Complete structured tasks
Follow instructions and communicate symptoms, effort, uncertainty and changes as they occur.
Finish the agreed documentation
The evaluator records observed performance and prepares the report for the consented recipient.
What makes an FCE report easier to use.
The report should answer the referral question without claiming more than the test conditions support.
Relevant observations
Tasks connect with defined work, daily or functional demands.
Clear test conditions
The report identifies the protocol, instructions, responses and limits of observation.
Appropriate conclusions
The evaluator stays within scope and leaves employment, legal or insurer decisions to the responsible party.
An FCE documents observed physical performance.
An FCE does not diagnose the cause of symptoms, guarantee a return-to-work date or replace medical and workplace information required by other decision-makers.
Ask who will perform the evaluation, whether that person is a Registered Kinesiologist and what FCE-specific protocol and training they use.
Functional Capacity Evaluation questions.
How long does an FCE take?
Duration depends on the referral question, protocol and number of relevant tasks. Confirm whether testing occurs in one appointment or more.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and secure footwear suitable for physical activity, and follow any additional preparation instructions.
What if pain or another symptom changes during testing?
Tell the evaluator immediately. The response should be documented and the applicable protocol used to decide whether the task continues, changes or stops.
Can I take breaks?
Breaks are part of the testing process when the protocol or participant response requires them. Ask how scheduled and additional breaks are handled.
Who receives the report?
The report goes to the recipient identified through the referral and consent process. Confirm the recipient and delivery method before testing.
How much does an FCE cost?
Fees depend on the scope, testing time and report requirements. Request a written quote based on the referral question.