Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Pilot Study For Use Of An Arthrometer To Assess Joint Laxity In People With Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Dawn T. Gulick, Valerie Iovine, Kerstin Palombaro

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Joint hypermobility is a condition in which synovial joints move beyond normal limits. Approximately 10-25% of children and 5-25% of adults experience hypermobility syndrome. One such hypermobility syndrome is an inherited connective tissue disorder known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Typically, a score of 4-5 out of 9 on the Beighton scale is indicative of hypermobility in adults. Whereas 6 out of 9 is the criteria for children. No significant correlations were found between the systemic features of EDS and the Beighton score. The purpose of this pilot study was to see if an arthrometer could be used …

Cultural Competence With Humility: A Pre-Post Cohort Study Of Student Self-Assessments, Michele L. Tilstra, Cara A. Berg-Carramusa, Karen M. Keptner, Tiffany J. Peets

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The intent of this study is to examine how Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and Counseling and Human Development (CHD) graduate students who experienced Counselors and Occupational Therapists Professionally Engaged (COPE) in the Community program perceived their self-evaluation of cultural competence with humility (CCH) constructs (cultural awareness, skills, knowledge, and desire) from pre- to post-experience. Methods: Using a pre-/post-test cohort design, researchers used the Modified Cultural Competency Self-Assessment (M-CCSA) to determine if there were changes in ratings after students completed a novel training program. Results: Twenty-five students completed the pre-/post- survey. Overall, the mean M-CCSA total and …

Civic-Mindedness And Core Values Ratings Across Three Cohorts Of Dpt Students: Impact Of Covid19, Sandra L. Campbell, Kerstin M. Palombaro, Ellen A. Erdman

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) defines expected professional behaviors beyond legal and ethical expectations in the Core Values document. Civic mindedness may be related to core values. Civic-minded professionals have strong ethics and work cooperatively to promote the general welfare of others. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education programs use a variety of methods to develop professional behaviors, Core Values, and civic mindedness in students, including experiential service-learning. The purpose of this study was to describe the trajectory of civic mindedness and core values over the course of a three-year DPT program in three cohorts of graduate …

Measuring Similarities Between The Patient Specific Functional Scale And Physical Therapist-Created Long-Term Goals In Outpatient Physical Therapy, Robin Zappin, Soo Yeon Sun

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background: The Patient-specific Functional Scale (PSFS) can be used to promote person-centered goal setting. This study aimed to determine how often PSFS Items and Target Activities from physical therapist-created long-term goals (PTC-LTG) agreed. The relationship between patient demographics, meeting/partially meeting PTC-LTG and meeting or exceeding the minimal clinical important difference (MCID) for PSFS activities was also investigated. Method: PTC-LTGs, patient demographic questionnaires, and pre/post-physical therapy intervention PSFS were collected. Each item in PSFS and Target Activity in PTC-LTGs was linked to a World Health Organization International Classification of Function (WHO ICF) category. A regression analysis determined if there was …

The Effects Of Debriefing Methods On Athletic Training Students’ Self-Efficacy, Amy Brzoska, Lori Kupczynski, Julie L. Murphy

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Simulation-based education is a teaching method used successfully in nursing and medical education, as well as in the military and aviation fields. It provides students with safe learning environments and opportunities to practice skills not seen or used during clinical rotations. Debriefing is an essential component of simulation where learning occurs while also fostering critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and promoting self-efficacy with clinical skills. However, the evidence rarely indicates which debriefing method is best at increasing clinical evaluation skills self-efficacy. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of debriefing methods on students’ clinical evaluation self-efficacy. Methods: …

The Perceived Benefits Of International Travel For Occupational Therapy Practitioners Who Have Traveled Internationally, Rebecca L. Mannel, Jennifer Calabrese, Megan Pappan, Anthony Dissen

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: This qualitative study aimed to examine the perceived benefits of international travel for occupational therapy practitioners who have traveled internationally during their occupational therapy education or career. To succeed, healthcare professionals must have various personal and clinical skills, including providing quality care to diverse populations. They must have cultural competence, which includes cultural humility and cultural sensitivity. Methods: A purposive, convenience sampling was used through a network of occupational therapy practitioners who had previously traveled abroad either as occupational therapy students or as licensed occupational therapists and participated in education, clinical experience, work experiences, or volunteer experience related to …

A National Cross-Sectional Survey To Assess The Education And Training Needs Of Allied Health Professionals And Clinical Psychologists Delivering Rehabilitation For Children And Young People Affected By Covid-19 In The United Kingdom, Jennifer Gardner, Zoe Berger, Graeme O'Connor, Anne Gordon, Philippa Wright

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: In the paediatric population there are two conditions associated with COVID-19 infection: Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (PIMS-TS) and Paediatric Long-COVID. The emerging clinical picture of children and young people (CYP) affected by COVID-19 has highlighted the vital role Allied Health Professionals (AHP’s) and clinical psychologists have in supporting rehabilitation. Therefore, it is imperative that AHP’s and Psychologists working across all clinical sectors have the knowledge, experience and training to meet the rehabilitation needs of CYP who have been affected by COVID-19. The aim of this cross-sectional survey was to explore AHPs and psychologists’ views on CYP rehabilitation needs and …

Student Physical Therapists’ Perceptions Of A First Semester Integrated Clinical Experience: A Descriptive Study, Alicia K. Rabena-Amen, Tyler Goslinga, Amber Orchard, Fatema Ghani, Todd E. Davenport

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The value of an Integrated Clinical Experience (ICE) is well documented, but student physical therapists’ perspectives of an early ICE are not. A first semester ICE allows practice of expected skills and behaviors from the onset of a professional program. The purpose of this study was to explore students’ perceptions of a first-semester ICE. Methods: A questionnaire was completed by 36 student physical therapists after a first semester part-time ICE. SPSS Statistics, thematic analysis, and a mixed-methods approach were used to analyze the data. Results: Students agreed the ICE emphasized the importance and allowed practice of professional and communication …

Educational Lessons From A Pandemic: Lecture Recording And Learning Outcomes, Melissa Lesser, Lora Packel

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The use of lecture capture (LC) in higher education classrooms has increased, especially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic; however, its effectiveness as a learning strategy is largely untested in graduate students. In undergraduate students, the use of LC has mixed findings related to academic performance. Some studies show no improvement in assessment or course grades while others show small gains. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of LC on academic performance in graduate doctor of physical therapy students (DPT). Methods: In module 1, students received two virtual synchronous lectures which were recorded …

Diagnostic Accuracy Of The Passive Straight Leg Raise Test In Detecting Compression Of The Lower Lumbar Nerve Roots, Hisham Mohamed Hussein, Ehab Kamel, Mohamed Ragab, Ahmed Elerian

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background: Lumbar nerve root compression is a pathological condition that occurs commonly in the low back pain population. Passive straight leg raise (SLR) is a clinical test widely used to confirm this pathological condition. Yet, its diagnostic accuracy needs further investigation. Objective: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of the passive SLR test in detecting compression of the lower lumbar nerve roots using magnetic resonance imaging as a reference standard. Design: This study is a prospective diagnostic-accuracy study. Methods: One hundred-and-twelve participants (82 males and 30 females) met the inclusion criteria and joined the study. Participants were recruited through direct …

The Clinical Placement Process Through The Lens Of The Director Of Clinical Education: A Qualitative Multiple Case Analysis, Jamie L. Greco, Katherine Myers

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The placement process is a key contributor to current challenges in health science clinical education. The Director of Clinical Education (DCE) is the central figure in coordinating the placement process in physical therapist education. Despite their central role, there is no research exploring the DCE perspective during this process. The purpose of this study was to explore the DCE’s experience in navigating the placement process to further understand how the DCE role is impacted by barriers and facilitators encountered during this process. Methods: Fourteen DCEs representing private and public institutions from across the country participated in the …

A Perfect Storm?: The Association Of Vitamin D With Injury Incidence Among Acrobatics And Tumbling Athletes, Katherine M. Lee, Andrew R. Gallucci, Jeff S. Forsse, Leticia Cherpe De Souza, Laura R. Irvin, Emily J. Boyer, Kristin H. Fant, Jeffery Heileson, Leslee Funderburk

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Acrobatics and Tumbling (A&T) is an emerging NCAA sport. Due to the novelty of the sport, limited research on injury incidence and correlates exists. Anecdotal evidence suggests that A&T presents with high injury rates. A relationship between vitamin D and bony injuries exists among athletes, but little is known about soft tissue injuries. Understanding the causes and incidence of injuries, including vitamin D, may assist athletic trainers. Methods: Forty-two A&T athletes (19.69 ± 1.199 years) completed 2 blood draws as part of routine medical care prior to and following fall training period. Results: Average vitamin D at T1 was …

Effect Of Russian Current And Structured Exercise Program On Postpartum Diastasis Recti Abdominis: A Case Series, Nagma Khan, Ashwini Bulbuli

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background: Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is the most common complication occurring post-delivery that limits the functional well-being of the affected individuals. Management of diastasis recti can include an abdominal binder, core strengthening, taping, and various surgical procedures. There is limited evidence to support the Russian current and structured exercise intervention in managing patients with DRA. Methodology: Three patients identified with DRA underwent a multi-modal treatment regimen including a hot moist pack, Russian current, abdominal binder, transverse abdominus activation exercises, treadmill training, and stationary cycling training. Outcomes were assessed using the visual analogue scale, abdominal girth, Ranney DRA scale, Oswestry …

Physical Therapists And Physical Therapy Assistants’ Readiness Levels To Deliver Telehealth Services: A Survey Analysis, Bhavana Raja, Alicia Rabena-Amen, David Gillette, Preeti Oza, Todd E. Davenport

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate physical therapists (PT) and physical therapy assistants’ (PTA) readiness to deliver telehealth (TH) services during COVID-19 pandemic. Method: IRB approved this survey analysis study. The Modified Maryland TH Readiness Assessment Tool (mMTRAT) was distributed by email to all licensed PTs and PTAs in California in October 2020. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare between-groups differences for continuous demographic data. Pearson chi-square analysis was used to assess between-group distributions of categorical data. The statistical significance of between-groups median mMTRAT scores was assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance …

Physical Therapy Professionals’ Opioid Knowledge And Attitudes In A Midwestern State: A Cross Sectional Survey, Steven G. Kinney, John D. Kiesel

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: To determine perspectives towards opioid use, knowledge on managing an opioid overdose, and awareness towards individuals who use opioids of Indiana physical therapy (PT) professionals. Methods: An online questionnaire was disseminated to PT professionals in Indiana from various practice settings. This questionnaire included two standardized measures, the Opioid Overdose Knowledge Scale (OOKS) and the Opioid Overdose Attitude Scale (OOAS). An additional 12 questions regarding the role of PT and other groups in the opioid crisis as well as opioid education were included. These questions were developed by discussion between investigators as well as feedback from another rehabilitation professional. Descriptive …

The Object Play Of Young Children On The Autism Spectrum: A Narrative Review Of Strengths-Based Literature, Sharon Eva

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The play in young children with autism has been historically seen as deficits-based, with a focus on the limitations of autistic object play. More recently, there has been a shift towards a strengths-based view of autistic object play, where their play preferences and skills are viewed as vehicles for meaningful engagement and as having potential for learning. The aims of this narrative review are two-fold: to identify themes in the existing literature regarding the object play of young children with autism; and, to summarize the existing literature specifically examining object play in young autistic children from a strengths-based point …

A Model For Teaching Financial Literacy In A Doctor Of Physical Therapy Program Using The Five Stages Of Career Development, Madeline Ratoza, Rupal Patel, Fabian Bizama, F Scott Feil

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The cost of higher education programs across allied health disciplines have increased substantially in recent years while salaries have remained relatively stagnant. The result of which is an increase in debt burden for graduates of allied health professional programs. One possible intervention to improve the experience of graduates is to improve financial literacy; however, research on the effectiveness of financial literacy education in higher education is scant. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand the effectiveness of a financial literacy and career planning seminar in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Specifically, this study aimed to …

How Traits Of Emotional Intelligence Affect Perceived Stress In Entry-Level Doctor Of Occupational Therapy Students, Heidi A. Carpenter, Chelsey Edwards, Scott Richardson

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Students in an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs are subject to high levels of stress and emotional burnout. Effective management of stress impacts life satisfaction and academic performance. Emotional intelligence (EI) has been shown to relate to lower stress levels in allied health students. Despite this, little has been done to investigate the emotional demands of an occupational therapy education. Methods: Participants were a convenience sample of 51 entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Students recruited from the Southwest and Midwest cohorts of an OTD program. The participants were surveyed approximately 30 days after beginning their semester curriculum. …

A Model For Professionalism Evaluation: Using The Rise Assessment Tool Across Dpt Didactic And Integrated Clinical Education, Rebecca Edgeworth Ditwiler, Laura Lee Swisher, Barbara Reddien Wagner, Stephanie Ann Anderson

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: There are limited options for professionalism evaluation during short term clinical experiences in physical therapy education. The purpose of this report is to describe the development of a new assessment tool (RISE) [Respect for Others, Integrity & Compliance, Self-Awareness & Commitment to Development, and Engagement & Work Ethic] as part of a longitudinal professional development model in the DPT didactic curriculum (RISE-SA) and integrated clinical education (RISE-CI). Primary goals of the RISE were to clearly define evaluation criteria, offer quick formative feedback, promote communication between clinical and academic faculty, and create objective professionalism …

Effect Of Action Observation Therapy On Pain, Kinesiophobia, Function, And Quality Of Life In Adhesive Capsulitis Patients, Prachita Walankar, Dhruvi Shah

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background: Adhesive capsulitis is a common musculoskeletal health problem. Cortical changes along with maladaptive pain behavior has been reported in literature. There is a need to implement biopsychosocial rehabilitation approaches to achieve successful outcomes. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the effect of action observation therapy (AOT) on pain, kinesiophobia, function and quality of life in adhesive capsulitis patients. Methods: This single-center, prospective study was conducted in a group of 30 persons diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis patients (19 males, 11 females). Patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Patients in one group were given AOT along with conventional exercises, while …

Student Perceptions Of Reading Preparation And Textbook Use In Professional Allied Health Programs, Laura Stimler, Camille Skubik-Peplaski, Melba G. Custer, Shirley P. O'Brien

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: In professional allied health education, textbooks are central to developing course content, student learning and certification exams, but little is known about the graduate student’s perspective. This study was intended to describe current trends in graduate students’ point of view, habits and opinions related to buying and using textbooks and other resources in allied health education. Methods: This was a multi-site collaborative research project. An electronic survey was developed to gather data on student habits and perspectives regarding textbook preferences including digital texts, academic reading, exam preparation, and obtaining course materials. The survey was distributed across four academic institutions. …

The Use Of Dynamic 3d Printed Cervical Spine Models In A Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Course, Cassandra I. Ciorciari, Dallas A. Rynda, Christina L. Fojas

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: While mass-produced anatomical models are commercially available, many models are inflexible and static, and may not meet the needs of health professions students. Advances in three-dimensional (3D) printing have demonstrated tremendous potential for enhancing student learning. This study uses 3D printed cervical spine models to explore whether use of dynamic, flexible models improve student learning in a cohort of physical therapy students. Methods: 3D printed models of the cervical spine and occiput were printed using a fused deposition modeling 3D printer and polylactic acid filament, and augmented with hook and loop fasteners, foam sheets, and cords to simulate structures …

The Impact Of Experiential Learning In A Pro Bono Ot Clinic On Clinical Reasoning Development, Julie Sandvig, Debra Hanson, Paula Kitzenberg

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Abstract

Fieldwork educators have expressed concerns about the readiness of occupational therapy students for clinical reasoning in the practice setting. Experiential learning involving face-to-face personal interactions with clients facilitates the application of theoretical knowledge, and the development of professional skills, competence, and self-confidence. Having the opportunity for extensive hands-on time working with clients, such as is offered in a pro bono clinic structure, may positively impact student clinical reasoning development of occupational therapy students.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of participation in a student-run occupational therapy pro bono clinic on student perceptions of clinical …

Effect Of Posterior Leaf Spring And Carbon Composite Ankle Foot Orthosis On Gait And Functional Mobility Of Stroke Survivors With Hemiplegia: A Randomized Clinical Trial, Zidikheri B. Msechu, Ahmad Zaheer Qureshi, Tim Drew

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The study was carried out as a randomized clinical trial to assess the effect of posterior leaf spring ankle foot orthosis (PLS-AFO) and carbon composite ankle foot orthosis (C-AFO) on functional mobility, walking speed and satisfaction among stroke survivors with hemiplegia. Methods: Twenty-seven ambulatory stroke survivors with hemiplegia who had completed a rehabilitation program and were already using an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) were included in the study. Subjects were randomly assigned either PLS-AFO or C-AFO and assessment was done with and without their AFOs. Functional mobility, walking speed, and satisfaction were assessed using the Timed Up and …

Occurrence Of Temporomandibular Disorder In Subjects With Low Back Pain And Spinal Postural Deformities: An Observational Study, Vijay Kage, Aarti Welling, Richa Desai

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Back pain and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) are two predominant illnesses that affect the human motor system. Literature has stated significant associations between chronic low back pain (CLBP) and TMD. Global postural deviations cause body adaptation and realignment, which may interfere with the function of TMJ. However, the possibility of TMD in subjects with CLBP associated with spinal postural deformities has yet to be completely explored. Method: This was an observational study carried out among 65 people having CLBP with co-presence of any spinal deformities. Forward head posture (FHP) was assessed using the On-Protractor application and thoracic kyphosis and lumbar …

Influence Of Apathy And Grit On Exercise Adherence For Persons With Parkinson’S Disease: A Cohort Study, Erica J. Kiernan, Evan M. Pucillo, Christopher M. Wiedman

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. A preponderance of evidence supports exercise and physical activity as an effective intervention to slow the progression of motor symptoms in persons with PD. However, less study has been given to the influence of non-motor symptoms of PD, such as apathy and grit, on adherence to therapeutic exercise programs. The primary aim of this study was to characterize levels of apathy and grit in individuals with PD and explore any relationship to adherence in a community exercise program. Due to the importance of caregiver interaction, …

Training And Instruction Of Learning And Study Strategies Improve Academic Performance In Rehabilitation Students, Evan M. Pucillo, Gabriela Perez

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Prior study has demonstrated that certain learning strategies can be improved with training and instruction. As a result, downstream academic success may be potentiated. However, it is unclear if instructional intervention can influence academic outcomes among rehabilitation students. The purpose of this study was to compare changes in grade point average (GPA) after exposure to a set of standardized self-paced training modules on the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) in Physical therapy (PT) and Occupational therapy (OT) students. Methods: A causal-comparative design was used, and a multi-center convenience sample collected N=75 entry-level PT and OT students [PT: 41(55%); …

Improving Hand Recovery In Tetraplegia Through The Use Of Meaningful Occupations: A Qualitative Case Series, Amanda C. Glueck, Casey E. Humphrey, Elizabeth Salmon Powell, Cassandra Catherine Ginn, Melba G. Custer, Camille L. Skubik-Peplaski

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: This qualitative descriptive study explored participants’, with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI), experiences with meaningful intensive task specific training (ITST). Methods: Three participants completed 24-ITST upper extremity motor therapy intervention sessions. Qualitative interviews were completed at three time points for a case series: baseline, within 7 days of the completion of the final ITST intervention session, and within one month of the final ITST intervention session for a total of 9 interviews. Results: Three themes were identified including: Quality of Movement Enhances Normal Use of Hands, Empowering Through Education and Motivation to Participate and Enhance Quality of Life. Through …

Exploring Clinical Reasoning In Doctor Of Physical Therapy (Dpt) Students Through Computer-Based Simulation, Denise Romano, Alyson Pasquale

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Clinical reasoning is a critical skill required to be an effective clinician in today’s dynamic and complex healthcare environment. Reflective ability is considered foundational for building clinical reasoning skills. The purpose of this mixed methods study was to explore the clinical reasoning strategies used by Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students during a computer-based simulation and the relationship between the quality of reflection and clinical reasoning strategies used. Methods: Forty-five first (n=15), second (n=23), and third (n=7) year DPT students enrolled in six professional DPT programs in the United States participated in an asynchronous computer-based simulation designed to …

The Ventilatory Management Of Paediatric Central Sleep Apnoea: A Systematic Review, Kane A. Hodge, Anne Jones

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Paediatric central sleep apnoea (CSA) occurs more frequently in the presence of another medical condition. This systematic review aimed to determine the effectiveness of oxygen therapy and non-invasive ventilation (NIV) for children with CSA and additional underlying comorbidities. Method: A search was undertaken of CINAHL Complete, Emcare, Scopus, MEDLINE, and PubMed with forward and backward citations for studies published between database inception and the 5th of May 2022. Articles of any study design or quality were included, excluding systematic reviews, letters, or study protocols. Articles had to involve only paediatric patients with a diagnosis of CSA with …