Our Functional Capacity Evaluation
uses the internationally recognized Isernhagen Work
Systems program as its cornerstone. The Isernhagen
has had worldwide success ‘In returning people to
work and keeping them safe’. This system was
developed by Isernhagen & Associates, Inc., a
Duluth, Minnesota firm seeking to lower the risk of
worker injury and its associated costs. This program
allows us to offer the experience of an
internationally successful rehabilitation program
within our primary service area.

The Isernhagen Work Systems (IWS)
Functional Capacity Evaluation is a physical test
designed to measure an injured worker’s abilities and
then match those abilities to the specific tasks of a
certain job. This is accomplished by having a worker
perform various activities that simulate on-the-job
work. The test, which combines the highest level of
safety with objective findings, is a significant aid
in developing an effective return-to-work program for
an injured worker.
Using a unique approach to physical
examination, our Functional Capacity Evaluation
allows the worker to test for maximum objective
strength without fear of injury.

The IWS Functional Capacity
Evaluation at Northeast is a comprehensive and
standardized two-day evaluation which defines a
clients functional and physical abilities. This six
hour evaluation measures maximum objective strength,
determines a worker’s tolerance levels to specific
activities and describes those tasks that a worker
could safely perform in an eight-hour day.

The goal of our Functional
Capacity Evaluation is to provide the individual,
physician and employer with objective information for
formulating a safe and appropriate return to work
plan. Based on the individual’s performance,
recommendations are made regarding return to work,
including any job modifications, or the need for
continued rehabilitative services. When an individual
does not have a job to return to, guidelines will be
determined to assist in the search for vocational
options.

What Testing is Included?

IWS FCE’s
outcome studies have shown:

• High return to
  work rate, even in chronic cases;
• Worker agreement
  with test results;
• A differentiation
  between pain and function;
• Strong medical
  evidence to give physician clear
  information;
• Empowerment of
  the worker to return to work;
• Significant cost
  savings in medical costs and
  indemnity.

Referral

We welcome any inquiries
regarding our Functional Capacity Evaluation. If you
have any questions or would like to schedule a
Functional Capacity Evaluation, please contact: Northeast
Rehab Hospital, Salem NH at (603) 890-7600 or NRH Woburn Clinic, Woburn, MA at
(781) 938-6219.