Digital Commons Network^™

Baby-Life Balance: Occupational Therapy Strategies To Support The Transition To Motherhood, Morgan Muriel Harshman

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The postpartum period is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and occupational changes that can disrupt daily functioning, routines, and role transition into motherhood (Albanese et al., 2020; Baker et al., 2024). These changes impact a mother’s ability to engage in meaningful daily activities, including self-care, infant care, and participation in family and community roles. Despite these challenges, postpartum care often emphasizes infant health, leaving gaps in support for maternal occupational performance, routine development, and environmental adaptation (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023; World Health Organization [WHO], 2022). Occupational therapy is uniquely positioned to address these needs through its …

Occupational Therapy’S Role In Vision Rehabilitation Across The Lifespan, Abigale Marie Ellenberger

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Visual dysfunction is highly prevalent across the lifespan and can significantly limit occupational performance and participation. Despite this, vision-related impairments are addressed inconsistently within occupational therapy (OT) practice, with documented gaps in standardized evaluation, occupation-based intervention, and practitioner confidence (Kaldenberg et al., 2023; Weisser-Pike et al., 2023a). The purpose of this doctoral capstone project was to develop an evidence-informed resource to support OT practitioners in the evaluation and intervention of visual dysfunction across the lifespan. A comprehensive literature review and needs assessment were conducted to examine current evidence and identify gaps in practice, including limitations in practitioner confidence, access to …

Development Of Feed In Context: A Context-Responsive Pediatric Feeding Guide For Rural Practice Guided By The Ecology Of Human Performance Model, Jatin Lee Cranmore

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Background: Pediatric feeding participation is influenced by complex interactions among sensory processing, motor coordination, emotional regulation, caregiver routines, and environmental conditions. When feeding challenges occur, the impact extends beyond nutrition and may limit participation in family routines, school environments, and community activities (St. John et al., 2026; St. John & Ausderau, 2024). Access to specialized feeding services can be particularly limited in rural communities where healthcare workforce shortages and geographic barriers reduce the availability of pediatric rehabilitation services (Tak et al., 2022). Occupational therapy practitioners are uniquely positioned to address feeding participation because occupational therapy practice examines the interaction among …

Gamifying Occupational Therapy Education: Enhancing Student Engagement And Outcomes, Payton Alise Baumann

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Background: Occupational therapy students face high rates of burnout and attrition during graduate education due to mental health challenges, reliance on passive learning strategies, and non-learner-centered curricula. These barriers limit active learning and reduce practical readiness for independent practice. Gamification has been shown to enhance engagement and application of knowledge; however, its adoption is limited by time constraints, attitudinal barriers, and lack of implementation guidance.

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to develop practical, evidence-based faculty training resources and gamified learning activities to incorporate gamification into occupational therapy curricula for the promotion of student well-being, engagement, and professional readiness. …

Unfolding Recovery: An Occupational Therapy Practice Protocol Manual For Dupuytren’S Disease, Rebecca Valdez

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Introduction: Dupuytren’s disease (DD) is a disease of the fibrous tissue called the fascia of the palm and fingers of the hand (Eckhaus, 2016). It develops over time, thickening the palmar fascia and leading to nodules and cords that flex the fingers (Pineda et al., 2024; Salari et al., 2020). The disease occurs mostly in men, with individuals of Northern European descent having a higher likelihood of disease development, alongside family history increasing the risk. This disease can result in disability for individuals, including difficulty performing certain activities such as picking up objects, donning and wearing gloves, putting hands in …

Statins For Primary Prevention Of Variceal Bleeding In Cirrhosis: A Scoping Review, Jason Brumitt

Faculty Publications - College of Physical Therapy

Background/Objectives: Variceal bleeding (VB) is a major complication of cirrhosis, marking a progression from a compensated to a decompensated stage of the disease. Previous research has suggested that HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly called statins, may have therapeutic benefits for those living with cirrhosis, though their exact benefits and role have yet to be elucidated. This scoping review evaluates the potential role of statins in the primary prevention of variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhosis, and if there exists a difference between hydrophilic and lipophilic statins for this indication. Methods: Publications from the last 10 years with primary or secondary outcomes …

Validity Of The Promis Ability To Participate In Social Roles And Activities Measure In Older Adult Health Assessment, Theresa Raudsepp

Faculty Publications - College of Physical Therapy

Objective: The International Classification of Function is often used in older adult clinical assessments. Well recognized is the high value, and difficulty, of assessing participation in social roles. The PROMIS Ability to Participate in Social Roles (APSR) measure may augment assessments enhancing our understanding of older adults’ participation in social roles. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the APSR diverges with other clinical measures suggesting it is measuring a separate construct adding new information to the clinical assessment.

Methods: A sample of convenience of older adults (n = 89) was recruited and administered clinical assessments that include …

Mindfulness Practice And Increases In Gray Matter Density, Gray Matter Volume, And Cortical Thickness: A Scoping Review, Jason Brumitt

Faculty Publications - College of Physical Therapy

Background/Objectives: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have been linked to psychological and cognitive benefits, yet evidence for their impact on brain structure remains sparse. Neuroimaging suggests MBIs may alter gray matter volume (GMV), density (GMD), and cortical thickness (CT). The purpose of this scoping review was to investigate structural neuroplasticity following MBIs. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, databases were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2023 that used structural MRI to assess structural brain changes in subjects after receiving MBIs. Nine studies met inclusion criteria, including five randomized controlled trials. Results: Mindfulness interventions ranged from 10 h of training to long-term practice …

The Effect Of Gratitude On The Mental Health Of Healthcare Workers As Measured By Burnout And Depression, Jason Brumitt

Faculty Publications - College of Physical Therapy

Burnout and depression have been considered long-standing issues among healthcare workers worldwide. Current interventions for managing poor mental health include exercise, medical treatments, mindfulness, and workplace changes. The practice of gratitude has shown significant improvements in mental health in the general population, and it has been proposed as a potential intervention for healthcare workers. This scoping review aimed to assess the effect of gratitude on the mental health of healthcare workers as measured by burnout and depression. The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online databases were searched using medical subject …

Embracing The Green Thumb: Occupation-Based Resources For Stroke Recovery, Brianna Padovano

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2026

Stroke recovery requires ongoing effort from survivors, caregivers, practitioners, and communities to promote meaningful participation in long-term engagement in daily life. Despite the growing amount of evidence supporting continued recovery beyond the acute stages of stroke, accessible resources that address the needs of these stakeholder groups remain limited (Chen et al., 2019). This doctoral capstone experience aimed to bridge these gaps through the development and dissemination of educational, clinical, and advocacy-based resources designed to support stroke rehabilitation across various stakeholders. An evidence-informed, occupation-based stroke recovery guide, which includes relevant theories, decision-making flowcharts, sample protocols, and resources, was created for new …

Breaking Barriers In Bariatric Care, Morgan Lapshanski

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2026

The doctoral capstone project titled Breaking Barriers in Bariatric Care was established to promote equitable care and increase the quality of healthcare services provided to bariatric patients. Breaking Barriers in Bariatric Care was implemented to address the areas of education, research, and advocacy. With the focus being on these areas, the student worked to promote levels of accessibility and inclusivity within the healthcare system. The capstone project included an asynchronous virtual educational program for healthcare students at Misericordia University to enhance knowledge in the areas of bias reduction, safe handling, and providing appropriate care to bariatric patients. The student conducted …

Harmony In Healing: Addressing The Psychosocial Needs Of Individuals Living With Lymphedema, Bria K. Brombacher

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2026

Lymphedema is a chronic and incurable condition associated with significant physical and psychosocial challenges, including depression, anxiety, social isolation, and reduced quality of life. Despite increasing recognition of these concerns, limited interventions exist that specifically address the psychosocial needs of individuals living with lymphedema. Additionally, individuals within this population often report limited provider awareness of lymphedema within the healthcare system. The purpose of this doctoral capstone project, Harmony in Healing: Addressing the Psychosocial Needs of Individuals Living with Lymphedema, was to promote well-being, improve quality of life, and increase awareness of the psychosocial implications of lymphedema through occupational therapy intervention. …

Normative Data For Blazepod Lateral Shuffle Test, Dalston Duff, Hunter Fujimori, Paige Hall, Koichiro Kurosawa, Karah Smith, Jason Brumitt

Student-Faculty Research - College of Physical Therapy

The BlazePod lateral shuffle test assess lateral agility and reaction time. Despite its growing use, no published normative value currently exist for this test. This limits the ability of clinicians to interpret performance and track progress

Prevalence Of Traumatic Brain Injury And Sequelae In Ukrainian Soldiers With Amputation, Jeanne Lojovich Pt, Phd, Peter J. Rundquist Pt, Phd, Enrique Castaño Spt, Abbygail Wohl-Kovatovich Spt, Mason Grimes Spt, Dominick Kaphing Spt, Taavan Mielke Spt, Daniel Myronchuk Pt

DPT Capstone Posters

Purpose / Hypothesis:

• To investigate the prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) among Ukrainian amputee soldiers.
• Participants would present with undiagnosed or subclinical signs of TBI.

Number of Subjects:

• 41 male Ukrainian soldiers receiving amputee rehabilitation at Protez Foundation in Oakdale, MN.
• IRB approval obtained through Concordia University - St. Paul

Materials and Methods:

• Participants were screened for TBIs using the Military Acute Concussion Evaluation - Version 2 (MACE 2).
• Participants were active Ukrainian military status and current recipient of prosthetic or rehabilitation services for war related injuries.

Results:

• Results found a high prevalence of positive TBI MACE II findings …

Comparative Scapular Kinematics Of Female Lacrosse Athletes - A Pilot Study, Peter J. Rundquist Pt, Phd, Joshua J. Curtiss, Brea L. Glickman, Reid H. Huebert, Collin M. Woll

DPT Capstone Posters

Introduction

• Research on women’s lacrosse athletes has focused on the lower extremity, highlighting the need for upper extremity investigation within this population
• Scapular kinematics play a critical role in shoulder function and injury risk in overhead athletes¹
• Symptomatic individuals demonstrate decreased upward rotation during elevation²
• Lacrosse athletes perform repetitive overhead movements resulting in risk of upper extremity injuries (23% prevalence) including the shoulder (6-9% prevalence)³
• Purpose: To compare dominant and nondominant shoulder complex kinematics in asymptomatic NCAA Division II female lacrosse athletes

Methods

Participants

• 10 NCAA Division II right handed lacrosse players (age 18-22, ave = 19.6 …

Feasibility Fo Blood Flow Restriction Training In Individuals With Down Syndrome, Erin Simunds Edd, Pt, Megan Dowdal-Osborn Pt, Phd, Emily Braesch Spt, Reese Crowell Spt, T Johnson Spt, Brayden Kurth Spt, Andrew Nordstrom Spt

DPT Capstone Posters

Intro

• Individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) demonstrate hypotonia, hypermobility, reduced muscle mass, fatigue, and cardiac anomalies, making high-intensity resistance (HIR) training challenging and potentially unsafe.^1-4
• Although moderate-to-high intensity resistance training is recommended, clear guidelines for safe load progression in DS are limited.
• Blood flow restriction (BFR) training allows strength gains at low loads by partially restricting venous return, producing adaptations similar to high-load training in other populations⁵
• Therefore, this study investigates the feasibility of BFR training compared to traditional progressive resistance training in young adults with DS.

Methods

• Four adults with DS, subjectively active with exercise in daily …

Qualitative Analysis Of Physical Therapist Assessment Of Fear Of Re-Injury Following Acl Reconstruction, Travis Gunderson Pt, Dpt, Calle Bye Spt, Kiana Fall Spt, Bailly Sackett Spt

DPT Capstone Posters

Background

• Prevalence: 40% of patients fail to return to sport after ACLR, with fear of reinjury as a primary barrier.
• Impact: Fear of reinjury is associated with altered movement, reinjury risk, and reduced activity.

Purpose

• To characterize the assessment methods used by PTs to assess fear of reinjury in patients post-ACLR.

Methods

• Design: A qualitative content analysis of responses to a single free-text question within a web-based survey.
• Participants: US-based PTs who reported treating ≥5 ACLR patients/year, currently assess fear of reinjury, and provided a free-text response (n=289).
• Analysis: A reflexive thematic analysis approach focusing on semantic and latent features, …

From Fear & Stress To Success: Supporting Dpt Students Through Holistic Development, Lyndsey Vandenberg Pt, Dpt, Edd, Olivia Clouse, Kayla Gehring, Avery Kellin, Abigail Kilmer

DPT Capstone Posters

Background

• Known : FOF and stress heightened in students, Influenced by several factors, Negative impact on students
• Unknown : Relationship between FOF and stress, changes over time, impact on DPT students
• Prediction : Reduction in FOF and stress over time, and correlation between variables at each time interval

Case Description

• Population : Non-experimental quantitative, correlation analysis
• Measures : Performance Failure Appraisal Inventory (PFAI) Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) Administered in month 1 and month 4
• Purpose : Examine changes in FOF and stress across the first semester and their correlation

Discussion

• Findings : Strong positive correlation between variables Higher FOF than …

The Impact Of Collaborative Testing In Biomechanics Coursework In An Entry-Level Doctor Of Physical Therapy Program, Linsey Hamilton Pt, Dpt, Dsc, Amy Swanton Spt, Elizabeth Lavine Spt, Kelsey Huettl Spt, Natalie Degener Spt

DPT Capstone Posters

Background and Purpose

• Student-centered alternative to traditional summative exams studied in multiple health professions
• Students complete an exam individually, then retake it in small groups
• Limited research in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education
• Shown to improve exam performance and reduce test anxiety
• Purpose: Evaluate effects on biomechanics exam performance among high-, mid-, and low-performing first-year DPT students

Methods

Design & Participants: Longitudinal cohort study of 34 first-year DPT students enrolled in a biomechanics course (Spring 2025)

Conclusion and Relevance

• Collaborative testing improved exam scores for high-, middle-, and low-performing students.
• Course letter grades not significantly impacted
• Supports collaborative testing …

Effects Of Pressure-Threshold Versus Flow-Resistive Inspiratory Training On Maximal Inspiratory Pressure In Healthy Adults, Amy Toonstra Pt, Dpt, Phd, Andrew Jacobs Spt, Nathaniel Richter Spt, Nicole Sperling Spt, Olive Westberg Spt

DPT Capstone Posters

Background

• High-intensity exercise induces respiratory fatigue and reduces exercise performance via respiratory metaboreflex.^1,2
• Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been proven to increase respiratory muscle strength and delay metaboreflex.^3-4
• Two most common IMT methods include use of flow-resistive and pressure-threshold devices.^5-6
• Despite extensive research, current literature remains inconclusive about device superiority.

Purpose

To compare the effectiveness of matched-volume IMT delivered via pressure-threshold versus flow-resistive loading on maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) in healthy adults.

Methods

• Blinded randomized controlled trial
• 20 healthy adults enrolled, 19 included in data analysis (12 M, 7 F).
• Inclusion Criteria: > 18 years of age, English-speaking …

The Effect Of Menopausal Symptoms On Physical Activity Participation, Morgan T. Walsh, Rebecca Franklin, Meghan E. Radnoff, Amy Tremback-Ball

Student Research Poster Presentations 2026

No abstract provided.

Clinical Effectiveness Of An Aquatic Exercise Program On Those With Visual Impairment, Mikayla Calitis, Haley Mcmenimen, Isabella Bernitsky, Amelia Gansz, Karol Bialek

Student Research Poster Presentations 2026

No abstract provided.

Functional Cognition: Supporting Clinicians In Practice, Molly Grawe

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This doctoral capstone was completed at Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) serving adults with neurological, orthopedic, and medically complex conditions. The project focused on education and clinical experience. Its purpose was to develop and implement an evidence-based educational program on functional cognition while gaining a deeper understanding of cognitive rehabilitation in the inpatient rehabilitation setting. The overall goal was to improve clinicians’ understanding of functional cognition and provide practical resources to support evidence-based practice.

Functional cognition refers to cognition within the context of everyday occupational performance. It reflects the interaction among personal factors, task demands, and …

Occupational Therapy: There Through It All, Leanne Bates

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

'Occupational Therapy: There Through It All' is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy Capstone project in collaboration with VNA Health at Home in London, Kentucky. The Applied Leadership Experience focused on patients, and their family members or caregivers, receiving home hospice care. The primary ACOTE focus areas were education, advocacy, and clinical practice. The purpose of the project was to facilitate an increased quality of life in home hospice patients by determining the gaps of care present for patients that do not receive occupational therapy (OT) services, provide education about OT’s role in hospice care, and creating educational resources for patients …

Project Connect: Social Participation For Deafblind Individuals In Kentucky, Rebecca Jade Riegler

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

For my capstone project, I collaborated with Kentucky DeafBlind Project (KDBP) to develop Project Connect, a pilot initiative aimed at encouraging social participation by creating regional social opportunities for DeafBind individuals across Kentucky. As my primary ACOTE focus area was program development, the goal was to create an accessible, sustainable model for ongoing social engagement and reduce isolation through structured community-based events.

A literature review and needs assessment identified a need for accessible, ongoing social opportunities for DeafBlind individuals across Kentucky, supporting the development of Project Connect.

Project Connect was designed as a replicable framework for regional Connect Day events. …

Swing Bed Orientation Packet: Onboarding Education For New Staff And Patients/Families Covering Therapy Expectations, Interdisciplinary Roles, And Patient-Centered Care., Shayla M. Gibson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

My Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Capstone and Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) was completed at Saint Joseph Berea Hospital in Berea, Kentucky, with primary ACOTE focus areas in program development, leadership, and education. The purpose of this project was to develop and implement a standardized Swing Bed Orientation Packet to improve onboarding education for newly admitted swing-bed patients, their families, and staff.

A needs assessment, patient survey, and discussions with swing-bed coordinators and interdisciplinary team members identified gaps in patient and family education. An 11-question survey evaluated patients' understanding of the swing-bed program, therapy services, interdisciplinary roles, and discharge planning. …

Classroom Sensory Kits: Enhancing Student Engagement And Regulation, Rachel Topp

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed at Henry County Public Schools (HCPS) in Kentucky. The primary ACOTE focus areas were program development and education. The purpose of this project was to promote inclusive learning environments for students with diverse sensory needs by increasing access to sensory tools and strategies. A needs assessment conducted in collaboration with the school-based occupational therapist (OT) identified gaps in sensory tools to support students, as well as a need for increased school staff education on sensory processing and classroom sensory strategies. To address these needs, five classroom sensory kits were developed and distributed to one preschool …

Occupational Therapy Led Data Analysis And Intervention Development For Injury Prevention In Automotive Manufacturing, Bailey N. Thompson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

A capstone project and ALE at Toyota's Georgetown, Kentucky plant focused on hand injury prevention through program analysis.  Work related injuries remain one of the biggest concerns for companies as it results in reduced quality of life for employees and economic burden. Data analysis revealed that new hires were disproportionately affected by hand injuries. This led to three key deliverables. First, a hand risk assessment tool was developed to evaluate injury risk per process, preventing new hires from being assigned to high-risk tasks consecutively while building skills. Second, a hand strengthening program was created to support new hires as they …

Early Intervention: The Importance Of Regulation & Therapy In The Nicu And Early Childhood, Acey Page

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This doctoral capstone project was completed in collaboration with T.J. Samson Pediatric Rehabilitation Services in Glasgow, Kentucky, with a focus on the ACOTE areas of education and advocacy. The purpose was to promote the importance of early intervention through the development of a website for therapists, healthcare providers, and caregivers. The website serves as a resource to support evidence-based pediatric therapy practices in the outpatient clinic and the NICU at T.J. Samson Community Hospital. Key topics include the effects of pain and stress in infancy, regulation, occupational therapy-based strategies, and advocacy for pediatric therapy services. A literature review highlighted that …

Optimizing Recovery Following Thumb Cmc Arthroplasty, Madison E. Poole

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed at Lexington Clinic Orthopedics Hand Surgery and focused on developing evidence-based educational resources to support occupational therapy practice in hand surgery rehabilitation. The primary project involved creating a comprehensive Home Exercise Program (HEP) and patient education handout for individuals following Thumb Carpometacarpal (CMC) Arthroplasty, along with practitioner-focused educational materials to enhance consistency in postoperative care and patient education. The project was developed through collaboration with an orthopedic hand surgeon and was guided by current literature on hand therapy, splinting, edema management, sensory re-education, and functional recovery. Resources were designed to improve patient understanding of the …