FCE

[Bubba]

It has been awhile since my last post. Had lumbar back surgery-L3,L4,L5 fusion with instrumentation, spacers with donor bone, complete L3,L4 disk removal, 10 small incisions in January 2009, due to work related injury. No problems with wc up to this point regarding med bills or approvals, etc. Regarding FCE, which is scheduled for tomorrow, is this a requirement for an impairment rating by attending physician? I am in TN.

[AQA]

The FCE is part of the equation as well as a diagnostic tool.

They want to know what you can and can not do. Each time I had one. I did not take my meds that day. That way I would get true results, as if I were working. If I was working, I would not be able to take the meds.. They mess with my mind.

During the FCE you will be doing alot of different things. Using different muscels.

[Bubba]

In TN, using the 6th edition AMA Guide, it clearly states ROM is not used in IR, only DRE.

[bronco54501]

I'm from WI and have had 2 done but it was not for a rating but as AQA said for a diagnostic tool. I actually have had 3 first 1 was to check what I was able to do as far as pain / weaknesses the second 1 was more of a progress report same with the third before I was returned to work. Now I have had a IME which they used to figure out what my rating would be for the parts that are healed ( I had multiple injuries ) and surgeon wont release me untill another 1 to 1 1/2 years. Not saying WC wont try to slick thier way and get 1 of thier DR"S to say I am at MMI.

But like AQA said I did not take pain meds for this test. I took my last pain meds the day before because that gives a actual measure of what you can do with out having to be doped up on meds....... Just be honest and if somthing hurts make sure you tell them so you dont hurt your self...................Take care .. Bronco

[1171]

No an FCE is not a comp requirement but it probably is with some docs (the one's that own a piece of the business!).