When you’re injured on the job, navigating the workers’ compensation process can often feel overwhelming. Among the many terms and evaluations you may encounter are permanent restrictions, maximum medical improvement (MMI), and functional capacity evaluations (FCEs).
These concepts play a crucial role in determining your ability to return to work and the benefits you may receive. Here’s what you need to know, along with some practical tips for undergoing an FCE.
Permanent Restrictions and Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
After a workplace injury, your doctor may assign permanent restrictions based on your ability to perform certain activities safely. These restrictions are designed to help protect you from further injury. For example, you may be limited in how much you can lift, how long you can stand, or whether you can perform repetitive motions.
Permanent restrictions often follow a determination of maximum medical improvement (MMI). MMI means that your condition has stabilized according to your doctor and is unlikely to improve further with medical treatment. Reaching MMI does not mean you’re fully healed—it simply indicates that your recovery has plateaued in your doctor’s opinion. At this point, your doctor will evaluate your long-term capabilities and limitations, which may include assigning a permanent disability rating.
Understanding your restrictions and MMI status is vital, as these factors influence your workers’ compensation benefits and your ability to return to work. For instance, if you’re unable to perform your previous job, you may qualify for vocational rehabilitation or ongoing workers’ compensation benefits.
What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
An FCE is a comprehensive test that evaluates your physical capabilities and determines how they align with job requirements. Conducted by a trained physical or occupational therapist, this evaluation measures your strength, endurance, flexibility, and other physical abilities.
FCEs are often requested by employers, insurance companies, or workers’ compensation attorneys to clarify what type of work, if any, you can perform safely. The results of an FCE can also confirm whether your permanent restrictions align with your medical records and workplace demands.
Tips for Undergoing an FCE
1. Be Honest and Give Your Best Effort
The FCE is designed to test your true physical abilities. Exaggerating your pain or abilities can lead to misleading results, which could harm your case. Be honest about what you can and cannot do, and give your best effort during the evaluation.
2. Understand “Malingering” Testing
FCEs often include measures to detect “malingering,” which refers to intentionally exaggerating symptoms. Evaluators use various techniques to help ensure your performance is consistent and genuine. For example, they may observe how you perform similar tasks in different ways or check whether your reported pain levels align with your physical movements. Consistency is key to avoiding any appearance of malingering.
3. Communicate Clearly
If a specific task causes pain or feels unsafe, let the evaluator know immediately. Clear communication about your limitations can prevent misunderstandings and help ensure accurate results.
4. Dress Appropriately
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and supportive footwear to make it easier to perform physical tasks during the evaluation.
5. Prepare Mentally and Physically
Get a good night’s sleep before the evaluation and eat a balanced meal. Feeling well-rested and nourished will help you perform at your best.
How Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group Can Help
At Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys understand the challenges injured workers face. We help clients navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims, including interpreting FCE results, addressing disputes over permanent restrictions, and advocating for fair benefits.
If you’re facing an FCE or have questions about your rights after reaching MMI, contact our legal team today. We’re here to guide you every step of the way and ensure you get the benefits you deserve.
