Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Assessment Of A Middle School Return To Learn Concussion Protocol, Aaron Yaksich, Laura L. Harris

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of a newly implemented return to learn (RTL) concussion protocol in an adolescent athletic population.

Challenging The Standard: A Case Report Of Postpartum Rehabilitation Prior To Return To High-Intensity Functional Training, Aly Matejka

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

OBJECTIVE Postpartum athletes frequently attempt to return to high-intensity training without graded rehabilitation of the deep core and pelvic floor complex, contributing to urinary incontinence, impaired load transfer, unresolved diastasis recti, and decreased performance capacity. Despite increasing participation of postpartum individuals in high-load functional training, there is limited applied literature outlining structured, criterion-based return-to-exercise progressions that address breathing mechanics, pelvic floor function, and force development prior to reintroduction of impact and resistance training. This case report describes the implementation of a 15-week postpartum rehabilitation and return-to-training protocol designed to restore neuromuscular control, muscular endurance and strength, and impact tolerance prior …

A Post-Professional Athletic Training Education Module For Detecting Skin Conditions In Diverse Skin Tones, Lauren Oskam, Laura L. Harris

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

OBJECTIVE To develop and evaluate a learning module designed to improve athletic trainers’ proficiency in identifying skin conditions commonly acquired in the sport of wrestling across diverse skin tones.

Dissociation Between Physical Reasoning And Tool Use In Individuals With Left Hemisphere Brain Damage, Shuchen Liu, Seda Karakose-Akbiyik, Alfonso Caramazza, Filipa Dourado Sotero, Laurel J. Buxbaum, Aaron L. Wong

Moss-Magee Rehabilitation Papers

Tool use and physical reasoning are often assumed to rely on shared cognitive and neural mechanisms. At some level, this correspondence is expected: using an object typically requires understanding its physical properties. However, both capacities are complex and multicomponential, so the relationship between them may vary across levels of representation and task demands. Here, we asked whether third-person physical reasoning about object dynamics can dissociate from tool use (i.e., performing a tool's typical action) in individuals with left-hemisphere stroke. We tested 11 patients, five of whom showed impairments in tool use. Physical reasoning was assessed using a novel collection of …

Investigating The Clinical Relevance Of A Modified 10 Meter Walk Test For Physical Therapists In The Treatment Of Acute Stroke Populations: Insights From A Case Series, Sarah Rowe, Gwen Juha, Todd E. Davenport, Joy Williams

Pacific Journal of Health

The purpose of this case series is to examine the utility of a modified 10 Meter Walk Test (10MWT) for physical therapists treating acute stroke populations including discharge planning, equipment needs and clinical reasoning. Seven patients admitted within five days of various cerebrovascular accidents completed the 10MWT during inpatient treatment sessions with modifications such as assistive device use, modified instructions and physical assistance. Of these, two patients also completed a standardized 10MWT in the outpatient setting following discharge from inpatient services. Patients recommended versus actual discharge settings were recorded. Ultimately, those who were recommended for acute rehabilitation had the slowest …

The Influence Of Prosthetic Obturators On Quality Of Life In Individuals With Maxillectomy Defects, Minseok Kim

Oral Health

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a growing focus on understanding the impact of oral cancer on patients' quality of life. Prosthetic rehabilitation techniques, such as maxillary obturators, often in conjunction with reconstructive surgery, have emerged as interventions to address the challenges posed by post-maxillectomy abnormalities.

Objective: This study aims to systematically review and evaluate the effectiveness of maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation using obturators in enhancing the quality of life of patients following maxillectomy.

Methodology: Systematic review of identified literature spanning the timeframe from 2000 to 2020 was used. The comprehensive search encompassed widely recognized databases including PubMed, …

Nurturing Beginnings, Madison K. Hanson

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Early intervention for postpartum mothers and their infants plays a critical role in supporting long-term health outcomes for both members of the dyad. Maternal well-being is closely linked to a child’s development, and challenges such as stress, physical changes, and undiagnosed postpartum depression can disrupt bonding, parenting, and early skill development. Because the transition to motherhood is complex, consistent support and interventions are essential for both mom and baby. Strengthening public education and improving developmental screening practices can help ensure mothers and infants are receiving needed support early in life. Nurturing Beginnings worked to bridge the service gaps between healthcare …

Cultivating Independence: Planting Seeds Of Education For Occupational Therapy Practitioners And Students Working With Individuals In Agriculture, Michelle I. Arens

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Agricultural work is physically demanding and culturally significant, yet most occupational therapy (OT) practitioners and students receive little preparation for supporting farmers and ranchers, especially those with disabilities. This capstone partnered with the Nebraska AgrAbility Project to expand knowledge of agricultural occupations and increase awareness of OT’s role in promoting safety, independence, and participation with this population. Using the PEO and CMOP‑E models, the project integrated immersive learning, resource development, and community outreach through farm visits, educational materials, presentations, and data collection. Results showed substantial growth across all groups: students gained confidence in treating agricultural clients and understanding OT’s role …

Rewiring Recovery: Integrating Assistive Technology Into Occupational Therapy For Neurological Rehabilitation, Megan M. Cotton

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Although assistive technology (AT) is widely recognized as an effective intervention to improve functional outcomes and independence in individuals with neurological conditions, it remains underutilized in clinical practice due to barriers such as limited training, time constraints, and lack of accessible resources (Langan et al., 2018; Pearce et al., 2024; Sarsak et al., 2023). This doctoral capstone project examined the integration of AT into occupational therapy practice within an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Guided by the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement (CMOP-E) and the Rehabilitative Frame of Reference, the project aimed to bridge the gap between evidence-based AT interventions …

Occupational Therapy’S Role In Promoting Adaptive Gymnastics Among Autistic Girls, Ashley R. Aesoph

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

This project focused on the underdiagnosis of girls on the autism spectrum and the benefit of adaptive sports participation in improving motor, sensory, and social skills for this population. Occupational therapy’s role in diagnosing and treating girls displaying symptoms of autism was explored through the completion of 25 autism diagnostic evaluations and screenings. The differences in the presentation of autism in girls and women was investigated through interviews with two clinical psychologists, a survey of 17 clinicians, interviews with the parents of two girls diagnosed with autism, and an interview with 1 woman on the autism spectrum. Through this, barriers …

Thriving Beyond Cancer: Occupational Therapy In Oncology Care, Claire Vanderbeek

Capstones: Occupational Therapy

Background: Cancer treatments often result in side effects that impair mental, sensory, motor, and body system functions. The purpose of this capstone was to advocate for the use of occupational therapy (OT) for the cancer population by gaining advanced knowledge and experience at two sites: a local YMCA cancer survivorship program and an outpatient rehabilitation clinic.

Method: At the outpatient rehabilitation clinic, an intervention and patient log were created and used to influence the creation of education materials for patients and providers. During the cancer survivorship program, psychosocial factors, strength, flexibility, balance, aerobic function, and program sustainability were evaluated. A …

Reframing Intimacy: An Occupation-Based Approach To Pelvic Floor & Sexual Health, Emma Stone

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Pelvic floor dysfunction is highly prevalent among women in the United States, and sexual health is often underaddressed in healthcare. This capstone project aimed to define the role of occupational therapists (OTs) in pelvic floor therapy and promote integration of sexual health into practice. Completed in an outpatient pelvic floor setting, the project included clinical skill development, program development, and advocacy. Interventions involved continuing education, creation of educational handouts, implementation of home exercise programs, and tracking outcomes using the PFDI-20. Additional initiatives included staff education and student training on OT’s role in pelvic health. All 12 tracked clients progressed toward …

More Than Mealtimes: The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Pediatric Feeding For Children With Developmental Disabilities, Anika J. Peters

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Feeding is a foundational occupation essential for growth, development, and family participation. However, children with developmental disabilities often experience significant feeding challenges that impact nutrition and participation in mealtime routines. This capstone project examines the role of occupational therapy in pediatric feeding assessment and intervention within an outpatient setting. Using a descriptive mixed-methods approach, outcomes were evaluated for pediatric clients (N=18) and occupational therapists (N=15) through goal attainment tracking, the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), clinician needs assessment data, and resource feedback. Results demonstrated improvements in food acceptance, texture tolerance, oral-motor skills, and engagement in mealtime participation. COPM scores reflected …

The Effects Of Acute Exercise And Observation On Procedural Learning: Considerations Of Biological Sex, Madeline R. Gossett

Honors Theses

As memories are formed or learning progresses, neurons within the brain establish a strong connection in what is referred to as a “neural engram.” This neural engram can be strengthened or weakened by certain physiological factors. Dopamine, for example, is released during physical exercise or when positive reinforcement is incorporated (Greenwood, 2019). This is a neurotransmitter that leads to a stronger connection between neurons, which in turn leads to a stronger memory formed in the brain. These physiological relationships that contribute to cognition are still being discovered, so research in this area is ongoing (Guskjolen and Cembrowski, 2023).

Memory is …

Transitioning Home: The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Aging In Place, Syrena Meyer

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

This capstone project explored the role of occupational therapy in supporting older adults transitioning home from hospitalization to successfully age in place. With the growing population of adults over age 65 and a strong preference to remain in their homes, there is an increasing need for interventions that promote safety, independence, and quality of life. This project focused on developing advanced clinical skills in inpatient and transitional care settings while implementing evidence-based interventions and educational resources. The Person-Environment-Occupation Model was used throughout the 14-week experience to identify strategies to enhance occupational performance in patients. Key activities included patient care, use …

Empowering Families: Enhancing Early Intervention Through Caregiver Coaching, Kylie Wersal

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

The early years of life are critical for infant brain growth and development (Twardzik et al., 2017; Help Me Grow, n.d.). • Early intervention (EI) supports infants and toddlers with developmental delays through holistic. family-centered care (Frolek Clark & Kingsley, 2020). • Coaching caregivers within natural environments empowers them to integrate strategies into everyday routines, improving child outcomes (Seruya et al., 2022). • The Primary Service Provider model supports transdisciplinary collaboration and provides the family with consistency (Childress, 2015). • Purpose: The primary aim of this project was to develop advanced clinical practice skills using caregiver coaching within the Early …

Vision Remediation And Functional Participation For Individuals With Acquired Brain Injuries, Alina Randall

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with Neuro Therapy Nashville (NTN), a privately owned, outpatient neurologic rehabilitation clinic in Brentwood, TN. NTN offers occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and counseling services to individuals with acquired brain injuries, with an emphasis on stroke, concussion, and vision remediation. The goal of the project was to increase access and availability of evidence informed resources for vision remediation and occupational therapy for individuals with acquired brain injuries. The outcomes of the project include a pilot research study which will be used to inform future analysis of vision remediation in occupational therapy, …

Measuring Effectiveness Of A Mobility Aide On A Medical-Surgical Unit, Jamie L. Granatowicz, Laura N. Rogers, Leeza A. Struwe

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects: College of Nursing

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a mobility aide on a medical-surgical inpatient unit to improve patients’ surgical outcomes, decrease hospital length of stay, and decrease the number of falls.

Design: A retrospective review was conducted to determine the effects of a mobility aide implemented on a medical-surgical unit. The intent was to ensure the utilization of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol for early mobilization before and after implementation. Two-month periods were analyzed before and after implementation.

Findings: The results demonstrated clinical significance for patients when implementing a mobility aide. The mean length of stay was 1.044 days …

A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis: Psychometric Properties Of Functional Tests In The Cancer Population, Mckenna Culter, Austin Schlater, Grace Molfenter, Mary Fisher

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

An After-School Adaptive Cycling Program For Children With Disabilities: A Pilot Study, Betsy Donahoe-Fillmore, Trisha A. Renner, Kate Burkart, Emma Feldman, Raegan Oehler, Kennedy Dedario, Britney Kozlowski, Terri Dinkelaker, Mary Fisher

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

A Comparison Of Drop Vertical Jump And Running Biomechanics Among Varying Experience Levels With Running, Jacob Hamme, Joaquin Barrios

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Development And Implementation Of A Tai Chi Group In A Community-Based Brain Injury Program, Haley D. White

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

My capstone was completed at NeuroRestorative, a Neuro community-based setting that provides Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and speech-language pathology. The purpose of the ALE and Capstone Project is to develop and implement a weekly tai chi group within a community-based brain injury setting that incorporates tiered modifications to address varying cognitive and physical abilities. The program is designed to promote improved overall functional participation while reducing periods of downtime and inactivity among participants. To support long-term sustainability and carryover, educational handouts and training materials will be provided to staff to facilitate ongoing implementation of the group intervention.

The goals of …

I Am God's Masterpiece: Ministry For Adults With Idd, Raegan M. Wilson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed in collaboration with Parkway Ministries in Corbin, Kentucky. My Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) took place in a community-based faith setting and focused on the ACOTE areas of Program Development, Education, and Advocacy. As part of a collaborative project to develop an inclusive Vacation Bible School (VBS) for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), my individual focus was supporting caregivers through education, resource development, and community engagement. A needs assessment and literature review identified caregiver burden, social isolation, limited educational resources, and reduced access to support services as common challenges for caregivers of adults with …

Improving Functional Electrical Stimulation Prescription For Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: A Case Series, Shahla Hosseini, Kimberly Bigelow, Nick Padgett, Robert Campbell, Lauren Boland, Skylar Forsberg, Brett Weaver, Kurt Jackson

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

The Effects Of Yoga On The Symptoms Of Perimenopause And Menopause: A Randomized Control Trial, Wendy Chorny, Betsy Donahoe-Fillmore, Brenlyn Rostad, Olivia Miller, Summer Rivas, Andrea Heitkamp, Cassidy Albers, Kennedi Gephart, Mary Fisher

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

A Tennis Ball Necklace As Simple Feedback To Effectively Reduce Impact Kinetics During Running, Kevin Sheehan, Matthew Minard, Andrew Clark, Jason Clingenpeel, Morgan Gigandet, Nicolas Love, Madison Scott, Joaquin Barrios

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Determining The Concurrent And Predictive Validity Of The Repetitive Step Test In Individuals With Parkinson’S Disease, Harold Merriman, Kurt Jackson, Kyle Arrowood, Kaylee Virag

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Split-Squat Lower Limb Biomechanics In Individuals With And Without Chronic Ankle Instability, Joaquin Barrios, Eva Carbone, Matt Cesario, Marshall Flynn, Danielle Updike

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Hold-Relax Stretching On Wrist Extensor Tendon Stiffness In Tennis Players, Brendan Burck, Adina Taylor, Cody Pohlman, Andrew Traven, Harold Merriman, Joseph Day

University of Dayton Doctor of Physical Therapy Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Program Development And Implementation Of A Sensory-Based Self Regulation Curriculum For Adults With Down Syndrome At Gigi’S Playhouse, Grace Blair

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed through partnership with Gigi’s Playhouse Nashville, a non-profit organization offering free programming and services to individuals of all ages with Down syndrome and their families. The goal of this project was to develop and implement an educational curriculum for adult education programs focused on daily life skills, money management, physical health, self confidence, and a variety of other topics. A secondary focus of this project was to support sensory regulation in individuals with Down syndrome to promote overall health and participation. The results were physical and digital materials to be used for future adult …