Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Electromyographic Analysis Of Hip Muscle Activity During Stair Climbing: A Pilot Study, Alexander Barney, Mary Loken, Paige Torgerson, Lyndsey Wunderlich

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Introduction: Prior to this study, little evidence exists for a quality predictive tool correlating maximum velocity contraction (MVC) strength of the hip abductor muscles to walking and stair climbing (ascending/descending, side-stepping) ability. Stair climbing is an important functional activity of daily living and as physical therapists we are involved in training clients to ascend/descend stairs safely, which can be difficult for clients with hip abductor muscle weakness. Subjects: Eleven females voluntarily agreed to participate in this study. All participants were under the age of 30 years old, nonpregnant, physical therapy students without a current musculoskeletal injury. Methods: …

Emg Analysis Of Latissimus Dorsi, Erector Spinae And Middle Trapezius Muscle Activity During Spinal Rotation: A Pilot Study, Jamie Flint, Toni Linneman, Rachel Pederson, Megan Storstad

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Purpose/Hypothesis: Rotation of the spine, a complex movement that has yet to be fully understood, occurs regularly in activities of daily living (ADLs) and sport performance. Rotation (twisting) of the spine is a contributing factor in low back pain pathology and, by reports, has been associated with up to 60% of all back injuries. One of the largest muscles of the back, the latissimus dorsi (LD), is the only muscle to attach to the spine, pelvis, ribs, scapula, and humerus, and has the potential to impact the spine during many different activities. To date, there is limited research on …

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Case Study, Alexandra Jares

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common lower extremity disorders reported, with a higher prevalence among females and in active individuals. While quadriceps strengthening has generally been the chosen treatment approach, some studies have pointed to the importance and influence of the hip musculature. Patients with PFPS commonly present with decreased posterolateral strength, specifically in the hip abductors, hip extensors, and hip external rotators.

Case Description: The patient was a 13-year-old thin-framed female who was referred to physical therapy after dislocating her right patella during a twisting motion in dance class.

Interventions …

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Case Report, Angela Kumm

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and purpose. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common injury among young female athletes. It is difficult to determine the primary factor that contributes to its development due to the fact that there are multiple causes. Factors influencing the development of PFPS are increased quadriceps (Q) angle, patella alta, abnormal or excessive foot pronation, quadriceps muscle weakness, diminished flexibility of the hamstrings and rectus femoris muscles, malalignment of the femur, weakness of the hips, static and dynamic skeletal malalignment, and altered neuromuscular recruitment strategies.

Case Description. The patient was a young female collegiate track and cross country …

Multiple Fracture Following Non-Occupational Fall: A Case Report, Brittany Olson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Falls are prevalent in adults over the age of sixty-five due to lack of balance and decreased lower extremity strength. Non-occupational falls are reported to have an increasing prevalence with age and one-fifth of these types of falls results in hospitalization. The hospitalization of patients who sustain injuries following falls most often results in skeletal fractures. The cost to treat these patients is projected to reach $54.9 billion by the year 2020. The objective of this case report is to demonstrate the outcomes of a patient who sustained multiple fractures following a nonoccupational fall.

Case Description …

Effectiveness Of The Graston Technique For Soft Tissue Injuries Such As Bicipital Tendinopathy: A Case Report, Brian Storhaug

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Abstract: This case report discusses a unique approach to the treatment of a soft tissue injury, such as bicipital tendonitis, through the approach called the Graston Technique.

Case Description: A 61 year old Caucasian male received treatment after a diagnosis of bicipital tendonitis. His job was working at a mail office which required repetitive manual labor consisting of moving boxes of varying weight and height in a position of protracted shoulders, extended elbows and supinated wrists. Treatment consisted of stretching the biceps brachii and upper trapezius, Graston, cross friction massage, ultrasound and therapeutic exercise.

Background and purpose: …

Outpatient Physical Therapy Interventions For The Cervical Spine: A Case Report, Brandon Szklarski

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

There is currently little evidence available to determine which conservative treatment options are best for management of patients with cervical pain and radiculopathy. The purpose of this case report is to describe a cost-effective, non-operative approach for symptom management-with physical therapy interventions in individuals with cervical neck pain and radiculopathy. The patient's diagnosis was determined by the physical signs and symptoms that were presented, as well as classification of the patient's symptoms with the clinical prediction rules used to identify patients with cervical radiculopathy. The results of the examination were consistent with her primary care physician's referral and diagnostic imaging …

Transfemoral Amputation Of A Male With Type Ii Diabetes: A Case Study, Daniel Johnson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose. This case study is focused on the treatment of an individual with a residual limb after a transfemoral amputation. The main goal is to help provide a greater understanding of how to treat the residual limb after a transfemoral amputation has been performed.

Case Description. This case study focuses on an older gentleman who recently underwent a transfemoral amputation of the right lower extremity because of dysvacularity. The patient was obese and had diabetes which is not uncommon for patients with an amputation. Physical therapy provided care in many ways including but not limited to …

Charcot-Marie-Tooth, Josh Anderson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) is the most common inherited peripheral neuropathy and affects both motor and sensory nerves. Clinical presentation is similar among all types and results in distal muscle atrophy and weakness, diminished sensation and proprioception, and balance and gait disturbances. Pes cavus is a prominent feature. Although gene therapy and neurotrophic growth factors show promise as treatment, physical therapy remains the most viable option at this time. The purpose of this case report is to determine the effect that physical therapy may have on both physical and psychological outcomes related to CMT.

Case Description: Patient was a …

Electromyographic Analysis Of Sit To Stand Dependent Transfers With And Without Education On Lifting Technique, Jordan Braun, Samantha Stegman, Alex Wohl

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess if there was a change in electromyography (EMG) activity in the back or leg muscles when performing a dependent sit-to-stand lift before and after a brief proper lifting intervention.

SUBJECT: The subjects in this study included 10 female third-year doctoral physical therapy students from the University of North Dakota that were all in good health with no significant pathology of either their backs or lower extremities.

INSTRUMENTATION: The EMG activity was recorded by the Noraxon ™ TeleMyo 2400R G2 transmitter and a TeleMyo 2400 SG150 unit. Knee flexion …

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (Bppv): A Case Report, Kylie J. Palmiscno

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common vestibular disorder. Of the vestibular disorders diagnosed in the general population, BPPV accounts for one third and may be successfully diagnosed and treated by a physical therapist in as little as one visit.

METHODS/CASE DESCRIPTION: This is a single case report of a 36-year-old female who was 5 months pregnant and diagnosed by her physician with vertigo. She was referred to physical therapy for further evaluation and treatment.

FINDINGS/INTERVENTION: With use of the Dix-Hallpike Maneuver the patient's diagnosis was confirmed and specified to be BPPV of the right …

Rehabilitation Pre And Post Mpfl Reconstruction Secondary To Mpfl Tear, Kayla Skersick

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: The medial patello-femoral ligament (MPFL) is the primary soft tissue structure that withstands forces throughout range of motion (ROM) to prevent the patella from sliding over the lateral femoral condyle and dislocating from the patellar groove. Impaired stabilization and line of pull of the patella can directly affect the patella and the entire kinematic chain during movement. MPFL reconstruction has become the most popular surgical treatment to correct this anomaly when conservative strengthening and biomechanical correcting treatments have failed. This case study evaluates the effectiveness of physical therapy treatment pre-operative and postoperative MPFL reconstruction, and discusses the …

A Case Report: Diabetic Amputee, Kip H. Thorstenson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this case study is to present the reader with a detailed description of the physical therapy provided for a diabetic lower extremity amputee. As the number of amputations across America steadily increase, there is an elevated importance of understanding the prevalence, causes, and reasons for amputations and which interventions are most effective in increasing a patient's quality of life.

Case Description: The patient is a 77 year old male with significant past medical history of type I diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and osteoarthritis. This patient has significant gross muscle weakness in both his …

Distal Femoral Osteotomy With Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy: A Multifaceted Therapeutic Approach, Mark Laraway

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: The surgical procedure known as a distal femoral osteotomy has been shown to be effective in treating valgus deformities of the knee with osteoarthritis in younger, active patients. But with any procedure, unsuspected complications such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can make rehabilitation for the patients and their therapists challenging. This study focuses on taking a multifaceted approach to treating all of the underlying impairments of a patient with recurring knee pathologies and an underlying secondary diagnosis of CRPS.

Case Description: The patient is a 38-year-old female who has had multiple surgeries on her …

Maximizing Functional Outcomes In A Patient With A Complete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury, Samantha Braegelmann

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Spinal cord injury is damage sustained to any nervous tissue in the spinal cord that results in loss or decreased motor function or sensation. Every year in the United States there is about 12,000 new cases of spinal cord injuries with young Caucasian males' most prevalent. The purpose of this scholarly article is to analyze various factors to maximize functional outcomes and determine the proper course of treatment following a spinal cord injury.

Case Description: Patient was a right handed Caucasian female who was involved in a minor motor vehicle accident and sustained a C7-Tl …

Evaluation Of Program Satisfaction, Quality Of Life, Strength, And Fall Risk Of Community-Dwelling Older Adults Participating In A Community Exercise Program, Rachel Bothun, Christine Gillespie, Zachariah Kvidt, Krista Moonnan

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Exercise programs aimed at prevention of osteoporosis are effective in fall prevention and improving mobility in older adults. This trial examined whether the Bone Builder's community exercise program decreases fall risk and improves mobility in community dwelling females over the age of 60.

Methods: Fifty one females ages 60-90 who currently are participating in the Bone Builder's program volunteered to participate in four different assessments as well as two questionnaires. Tests included: the 4-stage balance, timed up and go, gait speed (measured with the GAITRite system), 30 second sit-to-stand, and grip strength. The Functional Efficacy …

Rehabilitation Following A Distal Fibular Fracture In A 16 Year Old Female Athlete: A Case Report., Brett Morlock

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Distal fibular fractures are an uncommon injury in athletes, they are produced by repetitive stress to the fibula often due to overuse. The purpose of this case report is to discuss the rehabilitation following a distal fibular fracture of a young, female athlete and how the rehabilitation prepared the patient to return to her sports.

Case Description: The patient is 16 year old Caucasian female who participated in both cheerleading and gymnastics. She sustained a left distal fibular fracture while performing a stunt in cheerleading. The patient was referred to physical therapy following six weeks …

Osteochondritis Dissecans (Ocd): A Case Report, Brady Meyer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Osteochondritis Diseccans, (OCD) is the separation of articular cartilage and its adjacent underlying subchondral bone from the articular surface of a joint. Multiple hypotheses have been put forward regarding the cause of OCD including inflammation, ossification abnormalities, ischemia, and repetitive microtrauma. At this time, there is no single cause regarding the etiology of OCD. The purpose of this case study is to describe the physical therapy interventions performed on a college athlete for non-operative treatment of OCD. To also look at the non-operative treatment that the patient underwent, and determine if treatment could delay or stop …

The Effectiveness Of The "Stepping On" Program For Reducing The Incidence Of Falls In The Elderly, Lisa Yonker, Jacqueline Maddock, Kathleen Breuer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background: One in three adults greater than 65 years of age have had an accidental fall in their lifetime. In 2012, accidental falls cost the U.S. healthcare system $30.1 billion dollars. Strength, balance, and coordination deficits contribute to an individual experiencing a fall. Studies have shown that community based-exercise programs for older adults can improve strength, balance, and coordination and reduce the risk of falls.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to discover whether participant balance and confidence improved following the completion of the Stepping On program. Also, the study evaluated the effectiveness of Stepping On in …

The Effectiveness Of Traction In A Patient With Recurring Neck Pain: A Case Report, Kassandra Kertz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: According to Hoya et aI, neck pain is a common problem throughout the world, affecting 10.4-21.3% of the population each year. 50-85% of people with a new episode of neck pain will have a recurrence of neck pain 1-5 years later. Mechanical traction is an intervention commonly used to treat neck disorders; however, there is little current research supporting or refuting the effectiveness of the use of mechanical traction for neck pain. The purpose of this case report is to discuss the effectiveness of using mechanical traction in one patient with a recurring incidence of neck, shoulder, …

Orthotic Satisfaction Survey, Jamie Bowman, Sarah Erickson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The foot is made up of many bones, joints, and ligaments that help support the foot and body. When these structures are not properly aligned the appropriate biomechanics of the foot become compromised. Foot orthotics act as a conservative method of treatment to address some of the painful symptoms associated with these conditions. Common problems that have previously been addressed include plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, shin splints, flat feet, hallux valgus, and patellofemoral, heel and back pain.

In this study, we hope to indicate when and where orthotic use is indicated and what diagnoses benefit most when using orthotics as …

Association Of Generalized Joint Hypermobility And Occurrence Of Musculoskeletal Injury In Physical And Occupational Therapy Students, Patricia Bisek, Hannah Owen, Maleeka Rozeboom, Leah Tunseth

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background: A prior research study showed that the prevalence of hypermobility was higher among Physical and Occupational Therapy students as compared to the general population. The literature shows that certain injury rates are higher among those who are hypermobile. This has led to the question of whether or not hypermobility is directly related to injury and recurrence of injury.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) students for hypermobility as well as survey previous injury history. This study analyzed the prevalence of hypermobility with types of injuries in order …

Low Back Pain: A Case Study, Samir Maleki

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Low back pain (LBP) is a common complaint in the U.S., and has many possible causes. Multiple physical therapy interventions, including electrotherapy, traction, and lumbar stabilization exercises such as bridging and planking variations, have been shown to be very effective in reducing LBP. The purpose of this case study is to examine the effects of lumbar stabilization exercise and electrotherapy on LBP.

Case Description: The patient was a 43 year-old male, who had been experiencing LBP for the past year. He reported falling off of a truck and landing with his hand tucked into the …

Rehabilitation Of A Patient With A Jones Fracture, Calvin Crawford

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Ankle and foot injuries are common for all age groups, no matter the activity level. Ankle and foot injures can include strains, sprains, and/or fractures in any combination which can be debilitating for ambulation and functional activities. The most common foot fracture is an avulsion of the fifth metatarsal base, also called a Jones fracture, often associated with forced inversion of the foot. Almost all patients will return to their prior ambulatory state with proper care and rehabilitation within 12-16 weeks. The purpose of this scholarly project is to show the rehabilitation of a Jones fracture in …

Mobility Device For Injured Us Army Corp Engineer, Jessica Jones, Robert Whittaker

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Low back pain affects 70-85% of American adults at some point in their life. Back pain can have a negative impact on a person's quality of life. A group of three engineering students and two physical therapy students collaborated on designing a mobility device for a US Army veteran to aid him in transfers and pain management. The purpose of this research proposal would be to assess how our client would respond to an individualized mobility device.

Case Description: Our client suffered lumbar disc injuries as a result of lifting and twisting a heavy object resulting in …

An Interdisciplinary Analysis Of Core Competencies In Pain Management For Prelicensure Education: Curriculum Application For Physical And Music Therapy, Schaun Seaburg

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Core competencies in pain management were recently established for prelicensure health professional education and assessed for ways that they could be integrated into professional physical therapy practice. The competencies present the expected minimal capabilities for graduating health care students for the subject of pain management. The pain competencies include 4 domains: multidimensional nature of pain, pain assessment and measurement, management of pain, and context of pain. The proposed competencies are recommended for educational programs and could be implemented for other health professions. The purpose of this study is to assess the implementation of the pain competencies in physical therapy and …

The Use Of Physical Therapy Evaluation And Treatment To Manage A Patient Following A Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Case Study, Scott Holm

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: The knee is a significant structure within the musculoskeletal system, which is used for dynamic and static movement in the environment. Obesity has been found to have significant health implications within all of the body's systems. The purpose of this case study is to evaluate the functional outcomes of an obese patient following a total knee arthroplasty and gain understanding of the impact that obesity has on functional improvement during postoperative physical therapy care of a total knee replacement.

Case Description: The patient is a 43 year old female, who has undergone a total knee …

Pilot Study To Investigate The Influence Of The Timing Of Student Clinical Experiences And Student Characteristics In The Hiring Of New Graduates, Kjersten Skjold, Allison Vosgerau

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Clinical experiences provide the student with the opportunity to practice technical skills as well as soft skills. This opportunity may benefit the student in future employment at the clinical facility. As the clinical experiences are at various time periods throughout the coursework, many students feel that the later sessions of clinical experiences may be more beneficial in employment opportunities upon graduation. Students also feel that grade point average plays an important role in potential employment opportunities.

Methods: A survey was developed to identify the influence clinical experience session times and student characteristics that support future employment …