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Functional Capacity Evaluation Performance Does Not Predict Sustained Return to Work in Claimants With Chronic Back Pain

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Abstract

Objectives: Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is used to determine return-to-work readiness. We investigated the ability of the Isernhagen Work Systems’ FCE to predict sustained return-to-work and future pain and disability in workers’ compensation claimants with chronic back pain. Methods: Prospective study of 130 claimants undergoing FCE for chronic back problems. FCE indicators included number of failed tasks and floor-to-waist lift weight. Recovery indicators included days to suspension of time-loss benefits and future recurrence. Subjects were contacted after one year to determine pain intensity and disability. Analysis included Cox and logistic regression. Results: Fewer failed tasks (HRR 0.94 (0.91–0.98) and higher floor-to-waist lift (HRR 1.38 (1.17–1.62) were associated with faster return-to-work. FCE was not associated with future recurrence, or reported pain intensity, or disability in subjects reached for follow-up. Conclusions: Better FCE performance was mildly associated with indicators of faster return-to-work. However, FCE is not related to recurrent back problems, future pain intensity, or self-reported disability.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, 2-50 Corbett Hall, Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G4, Canada

    Douglas Paul Gross & Michele Crites Battié

  2. Workers’ Compensation Board–Alberta, Millard Health, Edmonton, Canada

    Douglas Paul Gross

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  1. Douglas Paul Gross
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  2. Michele Crites Battié
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Correspondence to Douglas Paul Gross.

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Gross, D.P., Battié, M.C. Functional Capacity Evaluation Performance Does Not Predict Sustained Return to Work in Claimants With Chronic Back Pain. J Occup Rehabil 15, 285–294 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-005-5937-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-005-5937-7

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