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Functional Capacity Evaluations in Charlotte, NC
The independent FCE attorneys, physicians, and case managers can trust — objective full-body and upper-extremity evaluations, reported in 48 hours.
FCE Quick Facts
What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation is a systematic, objective battery of standardized tests that measures what a person can safely and reliably do physically, then compares those measured abilities to the demands of a specific job or to U.S. Department of Labor physical-demand levels (Sedentary through Very Heavy). The result is an evidence-based report used to guide return-to-work, workers’ compensation, disability, and litigation decisions. An FCE answers the functional question — what can this person physically do — and is distinct from an Impairment Rating or an Independent Medical Examination.
Why referral sources choose EMPOWER
Independent & objective
EMPOWER is a true third-party evaluator with no treatment-revenue, employer, or insurer relationship that could bias the findings — so the report stands on the data alone.
Reported in 48 hours
Written reports are delivered within 48 hours of the evaluation, keeping return-to-work plans and claims moving.
Credentialed, named evaluator
Every FCE is performed by Lauryn Bewlay, OTR/L — a COMT-UE certified occupational therapist with orthopedic specialization, dual-licensed in NC (#14501) and SC (#6178).
Defensible methodology. Standardized testing, performance mapped to physical-demand levels, and consistency-of-effort measures so reviewers can gauge how reliable the results are.
What types of FCE does EMPOWER perform?
Full Body FCE
A comprehensive evaluation of whole-body work capacity: lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, standing and walking tolerance, positional tolerances, and material handling. Best for general return-to-work, workers’ comp, and disability questions.
Learn about the Full Body FCE →Upper Extremity FCE
A focused evaluation of shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand function: grip strength, pinch strength, dexterity, and sensation. EMPOWER’s COMT-UE certification makes this a genuine specialty — uncommon among Charlotte FCE providers and ideal for hand, wrist, and shoulder claims.
Learn about the Upper Extremity FCE →What does an FCE measure?
Depending on the evaluation type, an FCE objectively measures and documents:
- Lifting and carrying capacity
- Pushing and pulling
- Standing, walking, and sitting tolerance
- Positional and postural tolerances
- Material handling
- Grip and pinch strength
- Fine-motor dexterity and sensation
- Consistency of effort demonstrated throughout testing
Findings are mapped to the physical demands of a target job or to U.S. Department of Labor physical-demand levels.
Who refers clients for an FCE?
- Attorneys (claimant & defense)
- Physicians & surgeons
- Employers & HR / safety
- Case managers
- Insurance carriers & adjusters
Common use cases: workers’ compensation, disability determinations, return-to-work decisions, litigation support, and vocational planning.
What to expect during your FCE
Your evaluation takes 4–6 hours and is completed in a single appointment at our Charlotte office. Wear comfortable workout clothes and closed-toe athletic shoes, and bring water and a few snacks — you’ll be active throughout the day.
The evaluation is a series of standardized physical tasks and measurements. You’ll be asked to work to a safe maximum, and you do not have to push through unsafe pain. Afterward, EMPOWER prepares a detailed, objective report and delivers it within 48 hours.
Related vocational services
Beyond the FCE, EMPOWER provides vocational assessments, labor market research, and transferable skills analysis — supporting vocational planning, return-to-work, and disability determinations with the same objective, evidence-based approach.
Where does EMPOWER provide FCEs?
EMPOWER serves the greater Charlotte area, including Concord, Huntersville, Matthews, and Gastonia, across Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, and Gaston counties. All evaluations are performed at our Charlotte office at 1431 Elizabeth Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204. With dual NC and SC licensure, EMPOWER can also serve cases originating in the South Carolina–adjacent Charlotte metro.
How do I refer a client for an FCE?
Referring is simple. Call or text, email, or submit a referral online. Tell us the evaluation type needed (Full Body or Upper Extremity), the case type (workers’ comp, disability, return-to-work, or litigation), and the best contact for scheduling — we’ll coordinate the appointment and deliver the report within 48 hours.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an FCE take?
How soon will I receive the report?
What is the difference between a Full Body and an Upper Extremity FCE?
Who performs the FCE?
Are the findings independent and objective?
Can an FCE be used in a workers’ comp hearing or litigation?
How much does an FCE cost?
What should the client wear and bring?
What areas do you serve?
How do I schedule or refer a client?
Reviewed by Lauryn Bewlay, OTR/L (COMT-UE, NC #14501 / SC #6178). Last updated June 2026.
Refer a client for an independent FCE
Objective full-body and upper-extremity evaluations, reported in 48 hours.