Effects Of A 12-Week Remote Exercise Program On Balance In Adults With Down Syndrome,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Effects Of A 12-Week Remote Exercise Program On Balance In Adults With Down Syndrome, Kayla Kotake, Sherwin Cadiao, Nicole Kaes, Jayston Prudencio
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose/Hypothesis Individuals with Down syndrome (Ds) tend to have deficits in balance and postural control, which negatively affects their ability to perform physical activities safely and independently. Previous research has shown that exercise can improve balance in people with Ds, however, most studies looked at balance in children with Ds. As the average life expectancy for people with Ds has increased, there is a need for research investigating balance in adults with Ds. Also, there is a need to increase exercise opportunities (eg, remote exercise programs) for adults with Ds, as physical inactivity and sedentary behavior are prevalent among individuals …
Utilization And Perception Of Peer-Support After Lower Limb Loss In The United States: Potential Benefits On Mobility Outcomes,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Utilization And Perception Of Peer-Support After Lower Limb Loss In The United States: Potential Benefits On Mobility Outcomes, Moriah Maluotoga, Roopkiran Thind
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Introduction: Limb loss is a life-changing event that significantly impacts patients’ functioning as well as psychosocial well-being. Psychosocial support in the form of amputee peer-support is widely recognized as beneficial to individuals after lower limb loss (LLL). However, there is currently a lack of research on the utilization of peer-support after LLL and its perceived benefits to function. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine and quantify participants’ experiences with peer-support after LLL, and how peer-support experience is associated with mobility outcomes. We hypothesized that participants with LLL would express generally positive experiences with peer-support and that it …
Association Between Rural Background And Physical Therapist Practice Location,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Association Between Rural Background And Physical Therapist Practice Location, Caitlin Parker, Jace-Anne Sharp
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose/Hypothesis To examine the association between physical therapists’ rural background and their decision to practice in a rural setting. We hypothesized that years of rural upbringing and size of hometown would be related to rural practice. Number of Subjects 257 physical therapists who graduated from one of two physical therapy programs in the Western United States between 2000 and 2020. Materials and Methods A survey was emailed to 19 physical therapy schools consisting of questions regarding participants’ background, demographics, and job history. We collected total number of years of practice and total years of rural practice. Length of practice varied, …
The Development Of A Pilot Program Related To The Application Of High-Intensity In Occupational Therapy,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Development Of A Pilot Program Related To The Application Of High-Intensity In Occupational Therapy, Philip Lamoreaux
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Among the many diagnoses affecting an individual’s ability to participate in occupation, strokes are among the most common (Tsao et al., 2022). With the decrease in mortality rates by 35.8% due to advancements in medicine (Wolf & Nilsen, 2015), there is a need to remediate, adapt, or modify the life-changing impairments associated with stroke. The most significant evidence for motor learning, which is associated with regaining function, is in relation to high-intensity training in the context of ambulation (Middleton et al., 2015; Moore et al., 2020). By utilizing the neural plastic principles of repetition, salience, task-specificity, and intensity, an individual …
The Importance Of Educating Patients And Staff About Implementing The Neurogenic Bowel Training Program (Nbtp) For Spinal Cord Injury (Sci) In The Acute Care Phase,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Importance Of Educating Patients And Staff About Implementing The Neurogenic Bowel Training Program (Nbtp) For Spinal Cord Injury (Sci) In The Acute Care Phase, Silvia Lobaina
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
According to Borsh et al. (2019), a spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to a tight bundle of cells and nerves, the spinal cord, that send and receive signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. A direct injury can cause damage to the spinal cord itself or to the tissues and bones that surround it, which can cause temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, strength, and body functions below the injury site (Borsh et al., 2019). Unfortunately, the extent of the disability depends on the severity and location of the SCI; an injury higher …
The Effects Of Exercise Training On Gait In Adults With Down Syndrome,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Effects Of Exercise Training On Gait In Adults With Down Syndrome, Anna Lois Aquino, Sandra Daugherty, Alex Palko
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose/Hypothesis: Down syndrome (Ds) is a genetic disorder in which the individual carries an extra copy of chromosome 21 resulting in mental and physical disabilities and risk of major health conditions. A high prevalence of gait pattern dysfunction occurs in adults with Ds due to muscle hypotonia, ligamentous laxity, joint hypermobility, and altered development of musculoskeletal structure, which often lead to increased falls and fear of falling. The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in kinematic and spatiotemporal gait parameters between adults with Ds and age-matched controls, as well as studying the effects of a 12-week Ds-specific …
Implementation Of 2d Running Gait Analysis In Orthopedic Physical Therapy Clinics,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Implementation Of 2d Running Gait Analysis In Orthopedic Physical Therapy Clinics, Justin Rasavage, Tristan Trumbull, Melissa Goo-Tam, Micah Wilson
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Background: Despite 2D motion analysis being deemed valid and reliable in assessing gait deviations in runners, current use of video-based motion analysis among orthopedic physical therapists is not prevalent. Purpose/Hypothesis: To investigate clinician-perceived effectiveness, adherence, and barriers of using a 2D running gait analysis protocol for patients with running-related injuries. Study Design: Survey Methods: Thirty outpatient physical therapy clinics were contacted to assess interest in participation. The participating therapists were trained on 2D running gait analysis protocol and given a running gait checklist. We used Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to assess the implementation process by collecting …
Anatomy Academy Service-Learning Project: Attacking The Epidemic Of Childhood Obesity,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Anatomy Academy Service-Learning Project: Attacking The Epidemic Of Childhood Obesity, Kelsey Kjer, Rosedaveia Howell, Brennan Kitchen, Francesca Schutte
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
The World Health Organization has classified childhood obesity as one of the most serious public health concerns in the world. Obesity is known to have detrimental health consequences and be a risk for comorbidities. On top of the consequences of obesity already seen in young children at school, a lack of health education interventions in many elementary schools remains a significant health disparity. Anatomy Academy (AA) is a seven-week curriculum designed to educate children about their bodies and the importance of gaining and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The purpose of this service-learning project was to educate elementary school students in …
Development Of A Post-Op Transgender Care Program For Acute Occupational Therapy Practice,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Development Of A Post-Op Transgender Care Program For Acute Occupational Therapy Practice, Marieliz Llanos
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Transgender people have experienced adverse health outcomes and barriers to care, ranging from the inability to provide a safe environment for inclusive and equitable care, lack of social support, and limited cultural competency and healthcare provider training. Furthermore, the scarcity of research in transgender care within the field of occupational therapy contributes to the disconnect between the needs of the transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) populations and the lack of preparedness in addressing the occupational performance deficits of transgender clients and individuals undergoing the transitioning process contribute to disparities that are reflected deeply in the experiences of these individuals. In the …
Driving And Community Mobility: An Online Educational Program For Generalist Occupational Therapy Practitioners,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Driving And Community Mobility: An Online Educational Program For Generalist Occupational Therapy Practitioners, Gerard Blanco
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Driving is an important daily activity that often goes unnoticed, yet it enables individuals to engage in crucial tasks such as grocery shopping, going to work, and participating in social activities. Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners must recognize and address the significance of driving in their daily routines to promote clients' independence and fulfillment. However, despite being well-equipped to assist clients with driving-related issues, many practitioners avoid or neglect this area of occupation. A reluctance to addressing driving and community mobility (DCM) can arise from a lack of confidence, available resources, support, or fear of losing a client's trust. These barriers …
The Feasibility Of A Large-Amplitude Aquatic-Based Exercise Occupational Therapy Program For Individuals With Early Parkinson’S Disease,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Feasibility Of A Large-Amplitude Aquatic-Based Exercise Occupational Therapy Program For Individuals With Early Parkinson’S Disease, Brigitte Baker
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose: The purpose of this research was to determine if a 4-week aquatic-based, large-amplitude exercise program would increase strength and coordination for occupational performance in areas of activities of daily living (ADLs) and mobility in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) stage I-II, functional mobility as measured by Timed Up and Go test, and quality of life as measured by PDQ-39 in relation to occupational engagement.Methodology: Recruitment was through capstone placement site, Hands on Rehab, 7921 Professional Circle, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, in which a signed EAA was on file. Informed Consent was reviewed by the student-clinician as well as the …
Acquired Brain Injury: A Vision Screening Protocol For Occupational Therapists,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Acquired Brain Injury: A Vision Screening Protocol For Occupational Therapists, Sebastian Cheung
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Occupational therapists have a unique set of skills that allow them to assess individuals with an acquired brain injury who have visual impairments. However, it is frequently neglected in practice owing to a lack of confidence, knowledge, or training. There is a need for a vision screening protocol that will help occupational therapists learn more about visual impairments in adults with an acquired brain injury (ABI) and feel more confident in their ability to identify them. This quality improvement capstone project was a feasibility study and consisted of a sample size of N = 6, utilizing a one group pretest-posttest …
Lumbopelvic Biomechanics And Muscle Performance In Individuals With Unilateral Transfemoral Amputation: Implications For Lower Back Pain,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Lumbopelvic Biomechanics And Muscle Performance In Individuals With Unilateral Transfemoral Amputation: Implications For Lower Back Pain, Jason Ciccotelli
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Many people with lower extremity amputation (LEA) experience lower back pain (LBP). The amount of pain they experienced can be debilitating and severely interferes with activities of daily living. Previous studies have explored LBP in populations without LEA, and the evidence is also growing within the limb loss population. However, the mechanism for the high prevalence of LBP after LEA remains unclear. The lower back muscles, specifically the multifidi muscles, play an important role in stabilization of the spine during motion, and LBP has been associated with decreased mobility in patient populations, but the degree of dysfunction in the spinal …
Occupational Therapy Fieldwork In An Emerging Justice-Based Setting: Hope For Prisoners,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Occupational Therapy Fieldwork In An Emerging Justice-Based Setting: Hope For Prisoners, Noah Claypool
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This capstone occurred through a partnership with HOPE for Prisoners in Las Vegas, Nevada. As an emerging area of practice, the occupational therapy profession needs more resources and programs focused on the justice system. The lack of evidence-based resources to support future level I fieldwork students at HOPE for Prisoners poses a barrier for students to maximize their fieldwork experience and effectively engage with the organization’s population of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men, women, and young adults in southern Nevada.This capstone experience involved a 14-week immersion at HOPE for Prisoners, including participation in training and workshops and engagement with clients, …
Addressing Vision Impairments Following Neurological Injuries: A Vision Protocol For Occupational Therapists,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Addressing Vision Impairments Following Neurological Injuries: A Vision Protocol For Occupational Therapists, Dyrin Cordero
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Vision impairments have a high prevalence in adults with a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI), potentially affecting up to 90% of this population. However, these impairments are often overlooked during the rehabilitation process due to a lack of education and training provided to occupational therapists (OTs). Limited research also contributes to no standardized best practice guidelines for OTs to follow (Aravich & Troxell., 2021). This issue is important to occupational therapy practitioners because vision impairments negatively affect a person's capacity for recovery, quality of life, safety, and mental health (Berger et al., 2016). Occupational therapists aim to utilize holistic …
The Efficacy Of An Educational Toolkit To Enhance Knowledge Of Pediatric Reflux Management Among Occupational Therapists,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Efficacy Of An Educational Toolkit To Enhance Knowledge Of Pediatric Reflux Management Among Occupational Therapists, Kelly Cullerton
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This manuscript describes a quality improvement project completed by a student in the University of Nevada Las Vegas Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program. The project tests the efficacy of an educational toolkit for occupational therapists staffed at an acute care hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, to increase their perceived knowledge of and ability to educate families on conservative management techniques for pediatric reflux management. Results indicate that the toolkit demonstrated efficacy in achieving this objective. The toolkit provided useful staff education and parent handouts for the occupational therapists to utilize in patient care as appropriate. This project’s ultimate aim was to …
Feasibility Of The Every Moment Counts Initiative At A Southern Nevada Elementary School,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Feasibility Of The Every Moment Counts Initiative At A Southern Nevada Elementary School, Amber Lee Eddy
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Over the past 20 years, multiple legislative acts have been passed mandating support and services for the mental health needs of children and youth in schools; however, Nevada continues to rank last for the provision of such services. Children and youth who are mentally healthy are more likely to be successful in their homes, schools, and communities (Arbesman et al., 2013). Those who have increased mental health needs are more at risk for developmental and long-term consequences that jeopardize overall health and wellness, not to mention the immense effects that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on children and youth. With …
Ergonomic Education For Entry-Level Administrative Staff,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Ergonomic Education For Entry-Level Administrative Staff, Mitzi De La Cruz-Garcia
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
In the United States, 2.6 million work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) were reported in 2020, which are costly to employers, individuals, and our healthcare system. The most commonly affected workers are entry-level staff, who often do not receive training or education on office ergonomics during their onboarding process. Evidence exists on the benefits of ergonomics for workers, but there is a gap in disseminating information to these individuals. In addition, what is available on the internet can be of low quality, not based on evidence, and written at a higher-than-average reading level.There is a need for easily accessible ergonomic education and …
Utilizing An Interdisciplinary Approach: Education Of Early Progressive Mobility Protocol In The Icu/Acute Setting,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Utilizing An Interdisciplinary Approach: Education Of Early Progressive Mobility Protocol In The Icu/Acute Setting, Mary Ashley Galan-Gornal
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Early Progressive Mobility (EPM) was used more frequently in an interdisciplinary approach to improve patient outcomes. The aim is to create a protocol that takes an interdisciplinary approach and makes use of early progressive mobility. In the acute setting, occupational therapists are equipped to promote quality of life and independence both, during and after hospitalization, which is critical for early mobilization being beneficial for patients who are able to participate in therapy.This Doctoral Capstone project was aimed at demonstrating the value of occupational therapists in the intensive care unit (ICU)/acute setting by utilizing EPM in …
An Educational Sleep Hygiene Module For Unlv Students To Promote Occupational Performance,
2023
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
An Educational Sleep Hygiene Module For Unlv Students To Promote Occupational Performance, Therese Fernandez
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Does participation in a sleep hygiene educational module improve perceived ability to practice habits supporting increased engagement for leisure occupations in UNLV students? Sleep hygiene refers to a set of rules or practices to promote and allow for better sleep quality. Poor sleep quality is a prevalent problem among college students due to numerous reasons, including poor sleep hygiene. Since there is a strong correlation between poor sleep quality and daily function and given that occupational therapists assist clients to function optimally in activities of daily living despite impairment, it is essential to expand this area of practice to include …
