Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Efficacy Of Myofascial Release, Michelle Chait Ots, Erin Eaton Ots, Tiffany Farley Ots

School of Occupational Therapy Master's Capstone Projects (2016-2021)

In collaboration with Tomi Johnson and Domonique Herrin, hand therapists working in a MultiCare rehabilitation clinic, we sought to answer the question: In adults with upper extremity and cervical spine orthopedic and peripheral nerve conditions, does myofascial release (MFR) lead to functional outcomes (such as decreased pain or disability, or increased range of motion etc.), compared to therapeutic exercises, other manual therapeutic techniques, and/or modalities? Twenty-three research articles, systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included in our evaluation of the research. Based on our findings, moderate evidence exists to support the use of MFR in the upper extremity and its effectiveness …

The Magic Wand: A Case Study Of Chronic Neck Pain, Sandra L. Winkler

The Qualitative Report

Medications used to manage chronic pain have documented side effects including drug dependency, drug interaction, and adverse systemic reactions. This case study used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to understand how one individual experienced chronic neck pain including pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions. Convenience sampling identified Ms. P, an individual with a 10-year history of chronic pain. The research questions were: “How does one individual with chronic neck pain describe their experience living with neck pain?” and “How does one individual with chronic neck pain manage their pain?” Three super-ordinate themes emerged: pain pervades everything, finding relief, and recovery. Findings suggest that living …

Conservative Treatment Of De Quervain’S Tenosynovitis In Occupational Therapy: A Retrospective Outcome Study, Kevin R. Lang, Brittney S. Gibson, Kayleigh M. Oppenhuizen

Hand and Upper Extremity

Objective: De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (DQ) is a painful condition characterized by pain and inflammation at the first dorsal compartment of the wrist. This condition affects the wrist and thumb, and generally decreases an individual’s performance and engagement in daily occupations. Conservative management with occupational therapy (OT) can assist to diminish the associated symptoms and facilitate recovery of function; however, it is unclear what interventions are the most effective. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of conservative OT interventions for individuals diagnosed with DQ.

Study Design: An exploratory retrospective review of 148 de­‐identified electronic medical records provided …