Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Shoulder Rehabilitation For The Injured Overhead-Throwing Athlete, Joshua M. Raskoff

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Baseball incorporates the violent motion of throwing as a main act of physical exertion. The shoulder joint is vulnerable to injury during this movement. The overall purpose of this study was to produce a rehabilitation program for injured overhead-throwing athletes and have it evaluated by healthcare professionals. A paper and pen style questionnaire was sent through the mail to a network of professionals in California. Eighteen of the 20 questionnaires were returned. The quantitative feedback of the Likert scale questions indicated that the program was effective and usable while the qualitative feedback indicated the opposite. The additional comments allowed experts …

Analysis Of Factors Related To Drop-Off Detection With The Long Cane, Dae Shik Kim

Dissertations

The purpose of this dissertation was to examine the three key factors related to drop-off detection with the long cane: (1) cane-technique-related factors, (2) user characteristics, and (3) ergonomic factors. A mixed-measures design with block randomization was used for the study, in which 32 visually impaired adults with no other disabilities attempted to detect the drop-offs using either the two-point touch technique or the constant contact technique.

Participants detected drop-offs at a significantly higher percentage when they used the constant contact technique (78.3%) than when they used the two-point touch technique (62.1%), p < .001. The 50% absolute drop-off detection threshold of the constant contact technique (1.65") was also significantly smaller than that of the two-point touch technique (2.91"), p < .001. Constant contact technique's advantage in overall drop-off detection rate over the two-point touch technique was significantly larger for the less experienced cane users (difference of 26.2%) than for more experienced cane users (difference of 12.9%), p = .001. Constant contact technique's …

Comparison Of Methods Simulating The Ankle Sprain Mechanism:Inversion Drop Test And Landing On A Slanted Surface, Qingjian Chen

Masters Theses

The purposes of this study were to investigate the kinematics of two ankle brace testing protocols. They were drop landing on a slanted surface and the inversion drop test. Difference in kinematics and ground reaction forces of drop landing wearing an ankle brace on flat and lateral slant surfaces were also investigated. Eleven healthy subjects performed five trials in each of six dynamic movement conditions. They were an ankle inversion drop test on the inversion platform, drop landing from 0.45 m onto slant surface, and drop landing from 0.45 m onto flat surface with and without an ankle brace. A …

A Study Of The Effect Of Splinting On Pain During Tip Pinch For Osteoarthritis Of The First Carpometacarpal Joint, Leana Tank

Masters Theses

The following research project focused on the effect of a prefabricated neoprene first carpometacarpal splint on osteoarthritis pain with tip-pinch, strength measurements of tip-pinch and functional performance. The following questions were explored throughout this study:

1. There will be a significant decrease in mean pain levels when the subject’s hand is splinted as compared to mean pain levels when the hand is not splinted.

2. There will be a significant decrease in mean pain levels for the second session as compared to the first.

3. There will be a significant increase in mean tip pinch strength measurements when the subject’s …

Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue Management, Becca Gillis

Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy Theses and Projects

The purpose of this Master’s Project was to research Multiple Sclerosis and to gather a significant amount of knowledge to thoroughly understand this disease and the effects it may have on an individual diagnosed with MS. More specifically and as previously stated, fatigue is a very common and often debilitating symptom of MS. As a result, this project was directed toward helping us, as students and future occupational therapists, to become fatigue management experts by learning how to intervene and teach fatigue management/energy conservation courses to a population of individuals largely impacted by this disease. In addition, it was our …

The Effects Of A Four Week Single-Leg Balance Training Program On Balance Error Scoring System Scores Of The Trained And Untrained Leg, Roger J. Davies

All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 4-week single-leg stance balance training program on balance error scoring system scores of the trained and untrained leg and to determine any differences between genders for balance performance and cross education. Participants (N = 35) between the ages of 18 - 31 from Utah State University were tested three times over a 4-week period and those in the training group trained for a total of 22 minutes over that same time. Results showed balance improved for the trained leg and the untrained leg as well (p = …

Characteristics And Outcomes Of Individuals Self-Selecting Yoga Versus Physical Therapy For The Treatment Of Chronic Low Back Pain, Dian Dowling Evans

Theses and Dissertations (ETD)

Chronic low back pain (cLBP) is a significant public health problem that is difficult and costly to treat. Determining whether a patient with cLBP will benefit from a particular treatment approach is challenging, since little is understood about the patient characteristics that predict improved treatment outcomes. Understanding these characteristics could reduce treatment failures and costs of care.

This study was designed to explore the demographic, clinical and treatment- related characteristics of individuals self-selecting yoga versus physical therapy (PT) for treatment of cLBP. A growing body of research demonstrates that yoga reduces pain and improves function in persons with cLBP. However, …

Factors Affecting Occupational Therapists’ Decisions To Join Their State Association, Shawn Thomas Ross

Masters Theses

The following research focused on the factors affecting occupational therapists’ decisions to join, withdraw from, or never join their state association. Data was collected using a mixed methods design consisting of a survey that included quantitative questions and a qualitative question. The survey was sent to 1,908 occupational therapists in Michigan and 497 (26%) were returned and usable. Occupational therapists consistently reported dissatisfaction with their state association. Three themes developed regarding reasons occupational therapists’ decisions about membership: prioritization, interpersonal and group communication, and benefits. State and national association memberships were found to be associated. The greatest predictor of membership was …

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: An In-Service And Guide On Education And Prevention, Derek Foss

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is common among supermarket employees with a high prevalence among supermarket cashiers. In a study by Davis et. aI., (2001) it was found that supermarkets had the highest number of workman's compensation claims regarding CTS in Massachusetts. Of 247 reported cases of CTS in supermarkets 80 involved cashiers. Supermarket cashiers show a 19-60% CTS prevalence rate (Bonfiglioli et aI. , 2007). No prevention guide designed for supermarket employees was found in the literature; this scholarly project addresses the need for prevention of CTS among supermarket employees.

An extensive literature review was conducted to understand the need …

A Cognitive Behavioral Approach To Occupational Therapy Hippothearpy [I.E.., Hippotherapy] For Children And Adolescents With Mood Disorders, Abby Heaton, Krista Tangen

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Children and adolescents are increasingly being identified with mood disorders. A growing concern is that children and adolescents are not afforded a wide range of interventions to address the symptoms of mental illness. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been identified as a useful treatment method for mood disorders. Hippotherapy has also been utilized in the treatment of mental illness. A literature review was conducted to explore the therapeutic benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and hippotherapy for children and adolescents diagnosed with mood disorders. Although CBT has been recognized as useful, CBT methods applied to hippotherapy in occupational therapy does not …

An Occupational Therapists' Guide To Guillain-Barré Syndrome, Kelsey Hewitt, Stephanie White

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a rare polyneuropathy that affects 2,720 people per year in the United States (NIH, The National Women’s Health Centre, 2004). Guillain-Barre syndrome has a rapid onset that causes the patient to lose sensation and muscle strength within 48-72 hours. This project provides a resource for occupational therapists treating Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) to access information regarding the etiology, incidence/prognosis, assessments, and course of medical treatment. The Occupational Adaptation model serves as a foundation for treatment of the product-a guide for occupational therapy intervention. Interventions are organized to be compatible with the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (American Occupational …

At Options With Children With Autism, Melissa Stevens, Megan Neppl

Occupational Therapy Capstones

According to information from the Center for Disease Control Prevention (2007) it is estimated that autism affects 1 in 150 births. The Autism Society of America (2007) reports that the prevalence of autism is expected to increase by 10-17 % per year. It has been shown through research that assistive technology can benefit or increase performance in children with autism spectrum disorder. It also can address performance areas limited in children with autism, such as communication, cognition, self-care, leisure, social/play, productivity, and sensorimotor (Reed, 2002). Assistive technology can aid these children in various contexts such as school, home, and play. …

Bridging Job Skills To The Future For Students With Disabilities, Trista Aaberg, Jessica Mcwilliams

Occupational Therapy Capstones

It is estimated that 83% of students, who received special education services, are unemployed following graduation (White & Weiner, 2004). The problem is that often there is no training program to assist the job coaches in the evaluation process to create a successful fit between the student and the job placement. The literature supports the creation of a protocol and training program to address the needs identified of the student.

This scholarly project focuses on the Natrona Country School District in Casper, Wyoming which has implemented the Kelly Walsh Work Study Program. A review of the program's needs assessment and …

A Protocol For Occupational Therapy Involvement In The Response To Intervention Model, Nicole Bolinger

Occupational Therapy Capstones

In order to provide effective occupational therapy services to children within the school-based practice setting, it is important to be knowledgeable regarding the current theories and educational models which drive the educational system. Also, it is imperative that school-based occupational therapy practitioners understand the educational models and how they may impact the way occupational therapists deliver services. Chandler (2007) states, "an initiative is gathering momentum that has the potential to significantly change the way occupational therapists practice in the public school" (p. 7). Occupational therapy may have an opportunity to expand their services through a model called Response to Intervention. …

Vision Therapy Promotional Packet: Through The Eyes Of Traumatic Brain Injury/Acquired Brain Injury: An Informational Resource On The Role Of Ot, Sarah A. Cooper, Whitney Schilling

Occupational Therapy Capstones

"Very few in the health care professions, including head trauma rehabilitation centers, are adequately aware of visual problems resulting from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)/ Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and the visual-perception consequences. These visual deficits may lead to impaired functioning in the person's daily activities and roles because vision affects all other functions" (braininjuries.org, ~ 1). A few examples of activities of daily living (ADL's) and instrumental activities of daily living (lADL's) that may be impacted by visual deficits include but are not limited to: driving, eating, dressing, leisure participation (movies, reading, sports), and employment. "Unfortunately, this creates a gap …

A Reference Tool For Occupational Therapists To Utilize When Planning Occupation-Based Interventions Using Animal-Assisted Therapy, Jennifer L. Hamre, Kathryn E. Nagorka

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop a reference tool for occupational therapists to implement an animal-assisted therapy (AAT) program utilizing small animals in preparatory, purposeful, and occupation-based interventions. A thorough literature review was completed using PubMed, CINAHL, EBSCO, and OT Search to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current uses for small animals in a variety of settings. Cumulative resources included books, journal articles, editorials, magazines, and electronic organizational resources. Upon completion of a review of literature, we determined animals may be a beneficial modality and serve as an alternative mode of treatment to utilize with other …

Occupational Therapy For Client Empowerment In End-Of-Life Care, Emily Johnson, Sarah Landsem

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Purpose: To enable clients in end-of-life care (EOLC ) the opportunity to continue engaging in meaningful activities throughout their remaining days to increase QoL and experience a "good death."

Methods: To complete our Scholarly Project we conducted a literature review using PubMed, CINAHL, OTsearch, and AOTA publications search engines. We also conducted an informal information session with local hospice staff and from this information we chose model/theory to guide product development.

Results: Upon completion of the literature review, we found the following problems existed in regard to utilization of Occupational Therapy in end-of-life care setting; 1) hospice care team members …

Inservice For Individuals Working Or Caring For People With Low Vision, Tara Lee, Haylee Volesky

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Throughout the United States, low vision affects more than 3 million Americans 40 years of age and older (Rosenberg & Sperazza, 2008). As the population continues to age, more individuals will be moving to some form of either assisted living care or long-term care, which will increase the number of individuals with visual impairment living in such situations and requiring appropriate services. An individual with low vision typically has a decreased ability to function in daily life with a considerable impact upon functional decline in performance (Haymes, Johnston, & Heyes, 2002; Horowitz, 1994). Difficulties occur in everyday activities such as …

Managing Dual Relationships In Rural Healthcare Settings: An Education Module For Occupational Therapists, Jennifer Maus, Caroline Olson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Dual relationships are a common challenge for health care providers serving a rural community. A dual relationship is when a therapist has a professional and a personal relationship with a client. Occupational therapists may be at greater risk for dual relationships because of the personal nature of their interventions. These relationships create ethical dilemmas between the patient and the therapist and impact the effectiveness ofthe delivery of therapy services. A literature review includes information on the following topics: issues of rural healthcare, occupational therapy in rural healthcare, dual/multiple relationships, and continuing education.

The project is a continuing educational course on …

Occupation-Based Program To Reduce Revidicism [I.E. Recidivism] In Women Offenders, Kacie Moll, Ashley Tyre

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Within the United States, women are known to be the fast growing population of inmates. The purpose of this project is to develop a gender specific occupation based life skills program to implement within a prison setting and continue once in the community. An extensive literature review was conducted on current programming available and what the current needs of women inmates are. Literature revealed that there is a high rate of recidivism among female inmates once released but the recidivism percentage decreased when programming was provided within the prison. The needs of women inmates are different then male inmates. As …

Incorporating American Sign Language (Asl) Into Ot: A Clinician's Manual And Workshop, Kristin Pfeifer-Fylling

Occupational Therapy Capstones

The purpose of this scholarly project is to educate occupational therapists on American Sign Language (ASL) to enhance communication when working with Deaf individuals. Currently, in the United States, 12% of the population has trouble with their hearing, ranging from small auditory deficiencies to complete deafness. Many of these individuals communicate by using ASL which is now the 3rd most commonly used primary language in the United States (Barnett, 2002). In addition, Deaf individuals are found to have more difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) which may indicate more involvement with ~T. Because most healthcare workers OTs are not …

Fall Prevention Algorithm And Programs For Wyoming Medical Center, Janna Rone

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for people over the age of 65 (Center of Disease Control and Prevention, 2008). Literature indicates that 30-40% of falls are preventable (Sjosten, Vaapia, & Kivela, 2008). The population for this scholarly project is people over the age of 65 who are admitted into Wyoming Medical Center (WMC). WMC is a 180 bed acute care hospital that services the medical needs of the residents of Casper, Wyoming and the surrounding area. Like many acute care hospitals around the country, WMC has a problem with the number of fall occurrences. This …

Custom-Made Helmet Fabrication For Occupational Therapists Treating Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury, Megan Schill, Michael Shae

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Soldiers within the Veteran's Administration who have sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) were the focus of this project. Reports showed a growing number of soldiers have returned from Iraq with head injuries, including cranial and brain defects (Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, 2007). Symptoms individuals with TBI commonly exhibit include dizziness, balance problems, sleep problems, excessive fatigue, headaches, and difficulties with cognitive processes. Other symptoms associated with a TBI are blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and bad tastes in the mouth (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2007). The purpose of this project was to develop …

Sensory Processing Disorder: Raising Awareness, Stephanie Thomas, Karla Emmerich

Occupational Therapy Capstones

It is estimated by Miller (2006) that 1 in 20 children are impacted by Sensory Processing Disorders (SPDs). The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1990 is legislation that places families at the core of the intervention process and acknowledges the importance and the influence families have on a child's development (Cohn, Miller, & Tickle-Degnen, 2000). Cohn et al. stress family-centered practices require therapists to understand and listen to the hopes and outcomes that are most important for the children's families. At STRIDE Learning Center, a developmental preschool in Cheyenne, Wyoming, parents and teachers have requested more information on Sensory …

Quad Strengthening And Hamstring Stretching As A Treatment Of Pes Anserine Bursitis, Jennifer Bernardy

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background/Purpose: This case study describes a 28-year-old woman’s six physical therapy visits over a period of four weeks for treatment of right pes anserine bursitis. The purpose of this case study is to describe the treatment of an individual with pes anserine bursitis using hamstring stretching, quadriceps strengthening, and iontophoresis and to describe the outcomes.

Case Description: Following a fall down eight steps in her home with her right knee underneath her. The patient presented with increased pain, swelling, loss of range of motion, and tenderness at the pes anserine. Treatment consisted of iontophoresis, hamstring stretches, and quadriceps strengthening.

Outcomes: …

Use Of Aquatic Therapy/Core Stabilization And A Multi-Disciplinary Treatment For A Patient With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Case Report, Jesse Elis

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: This case report describes the use of two different conservative treatment approaches on a patient suffering from chronic nonspecific low back pain. The case report illustrates the difference between aquatic therapy/core stabilization, which focuses on the biological aspect of the injury, and multi-disciplinary treatment, which treats the injury on a biopsychosocial level.

Case description: The patient was a 32-year old man that suffered two disc herniations from lifting a large box at work. After the injury, the patient received conservative treatments 3 months prior to this specific case report. Neurological deficits were present and the patient had …

Use Of Pelvic Clocks For Physical Therapy Management Of A Patient With Sacroiliac Dysfunction And Low Back Pain: A Case Report, Amber Huener

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose. This case study describes the evaluation and treatment of a patient with sacroiliac dysfunction and low back pain. The purpose of this case study is to explore the effects of pelvic clocks used as muscle energy techniques in the treatment of sacroiliac dysfunction and low back pain.

Description. The patient was a 62-year-old woman with a 5-month history of SI pain who was seen for outpatient physical therapy over a 5-week period. The client presented with decreased strength in hip abduction bilaterally, decreased knee ROM, sacroiliac pain, and referring pain down to the knee on the left. …

Outpatient Physical Therapy Management Of A Patient Who Is Status Post Right Lunate: Open Reduction Internal Fixation With Hardware Removal: A Case Report, Jaime Garness

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: This case report follows a 20 year old male through his five week out patient rehabilitation for an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) pinning of his right lunate and subsequent hardware removal following a motor vehicle accident. The patient presented with pain, decreased strength and range of motion of his right wrist. A deficit was also identified in his right shoulder stemming from decreased use of his right upper extremity. The reason for this case study is to look into benefits of physical therapy interventions as well as their functional outcomes.

Interventions: Patient warmed up on …

Outpatient Physical Therapy Management Of A Patient With Chronic Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome, Kaley Schultz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose. Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) is one of the most common repetitive injuries treated in outpatient physical therapy and if left untreated, can lead to debilitating consequences for an individual. The purpose of this report is to describe the progression of conservative interventions that were used during outpatient physical therapy for a patient with the diagnosis of ITBFS in order for the patient to return to pain free activities of daily living.

Case Description. The patient was a 29 year old male who experienced pain over his c right greater trochanter and pain and snapping over …

Ot Cultural Competence Website, Kelly Bjoralt, Kristy Henson

Occupational Therapy Capstones

Cultural competence, in health care, is becoming increasingly important as minority populations continue to grow in the United States. Although it is clear that cultural sensitive, client-centered care directly effects treatment outcomes, students and clinicians may not know where or how to access cultural resources. Culturally competent care is vital to the field of occupational therapy as client-centered care is viewed as a means of providing the best outcomes and quality of care.

A literature review was conducted to identify current cultural resources available. Based on the findings, an adult learning theory was used in conjunction with effective website design …