Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

A Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Eye Protection Methods Used In General Anesthesia, Larry W. Johnson

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this quasi experimental, clinical study was to determine whether taping of the eye or applying ophthalmic ointment along with taping of the eye yields a difference in occurrence and symptoms of corneal epithelial defects in surgical patients undergoing general anesthesia. Orem's Self-Care Deficit Theory provided the theoretical framework for this study.

Fifty subjects were randomly selected from a convenience sample of surgical patients in two 300 bed hospitals located in a Midwestern state. The subjects ranged from 18 to 60 years of age. The subjects had no history of previous eye surgery or glaucoma, and were not …

Hippotherapy As A Modality In Rehabilitation, H. Rebecca Adams

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Hippotherapy is fast becoming a treatment option for today's therapists. Recent efforts in rehabilitation have focused on emphasizing the "multidisciplinary team" approach, involving occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathologists as well as including members of the family in the clinic's treatment process. Hippotherapy is the way in which these disciplines can easily be combined, as well as including the family in an educational as well as exciting treatment program for clients. This study will review a wide source of literature addressing the definition and process of hippotherapy and the physiological components of the program. Indications, contraindications and precautions …

The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, Jennifer Anderson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a disorder of the peripheral vestibular system presenting with nystagmus and vertigo. Other symptoms experienced include nausea, vomiting, and balance disturbances. The purpose of this paper is to review diagnostic and rehabilitation techniques currently being utilized. First, the anatomy and physiology of the peripheral vestibular system will be explained. Next, the diagnostic procedures performed by a physician as well as a physical therapist will be discussed. Following, current rehabilitative techniques will be explored. In conclusion is the author's opinion of the diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.

Three-Dimensional Kinematics Of The Overarm Throwing Motion In Children Ages 2 To 7, Jacalyn R. Breidenbach

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Throwing is a meaningful play activity that encourages social interaction, develops the sequencing of motor skills, and signals the onset oftoddlerhood. Little published data clearly documents the three-dimensional kinematics ofthe progression of the overarm throwing motion in children. The purpose of this study is twofold: 1) To explore the biomechanical differences in the overarm throwing techniques of children between the ages of two and seven, and 2) To compare the kinematics of dominant versus non-dominant arm throws in children between the ages of two and seven.

Methods: 1) Nine children, 6 males and 3 females, were classified …

An Electromyographic And Video Motion Analysis Study Of The Drawback And Hold Phases Of Compound Bow Versus A Traditional Bow In Experienced Archers, Jason Brodina

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background/Purpose: Archery is quickly becoming an increasingly popular sport, with limited research in the training and rehabilitation of archers. The purpose of this study is to identify the major muscles and timing of recruitment during the drawback and hold of a bow, and to determine the presence of differences in this recruitment between a compound and traditional bow.

Subjects/Methods: Seven males between the ages of 36 to 51 years of age completed 6 drawbacks each with a compound bow and a traditional bow. Surface electrodes on the subjects and reflective markers on the bow were used to analyze electromyographic activity …

The Effect Of A Five Week Balance Training Program On Individuals With Previous Ankle Sprains, Anna Burchill

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Balance is critical in maintaining optimal function in daily activities and also plays a role in higher balance functions, such as those used by athletes, whether they be competitive or recreational athletes. Control of posture and balance is a complex function that is mediated by the central nervous system using a dynamic combination of sensory inputs from the vestibular, somatosensory, and visual systems. Ankle injuries are a common occurrence in individuals, and it has been found that changes in proprioception occur in an ankle after it has been sprained and may cause deficits in the somatosensory portion of balance, leading …

Continuous Passive Motion And Physical Therapy Versus Physical Therapy Alone In Total Knee Arthroplasty, Neal A. Cashman

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

This study investigated the effect of continuous passive motion (CPM) on the rehabilitation of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Over the years, CPM use in the treatment of TKA has been debated whether it is effective enough to justify the medical expense that accompanies it.

Sixteen subjects who underwent TKA surgery participated in the study. Twelve subjects were in the CPM group and four subjects were in the non-CPM group. Groups were determined by the surgeon's rehabilitation preference of using the CPM or not using the CPM.

Post surgical subjects were treated with the CPM and physical therapy or …

A Comparison And Discussion Of Flexion And Extension Exercises For The Treatment Of Low Back Pain, Joan K. Due

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Low Back Pain is the most common condition that is seen by the outpatient Physical Therapist. The lives of those who suffer from low back pain are negatively impacted in a variety of ways, including monetary expenditures, lost time from work and difficulty performing everyday personal activities. Despite the fact that low back pain is a common malady seen by Physical Therapists, there is little agreement on the management of it's symptoms. Perhaps, no two treatments for low back pain could seem so varied as spinal flexion and spinal extension exercises, which seem to be diametrically opposed. This review of …

The Effects Of Hormone Replacement Therapy And Exercise On Osteoporosis In Postmenopausal Females, Sara L. Glas

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Osteoporosis is a debilitating and life-threatening disease affecting millions of people in the United States yearly, but most notably menopausal females. The lowered estrogen levels associated with menopause increase the chances of developing osteoporosis. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been found to be one of the most beneficial therapies for slowing the progression of the disease. While some women are not candidates for this care and others take HRT solely for the relief of postmenopausal symptoms, studies have proven HRT has a long-term advantage against osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercise has established efficacy through research proving its positive effect on bone formation …

Electromyographic Analysis Of Trunk Musculature Following A Nine Hole Round Of Golf: The Fatigue Factor, Katie Glessing

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The purpose of this study is to determine the fatigue component in trunk musculature following a simulated nine hole round of golf through analysis of the trunk muscles during the golf swing.

Our subjects consisted of 4 males ages 22-26. Each subject performed 5 EMG monitored golf swings with a driver prior to and following a simulated 9 hole round of golf. This provided pre-round and post-round data to analyze and determine if significant fatigue occurred in the trunk musculature.

The results showed that a significant shift in median frequency occurred, signifying muscle fatigue, in 2 of the 4 subjects …

Three-Dimensional Kinematics Of The Overarm Throwing Motion In Children Ages 2 To 7, Katherine A. Hagen

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background and Purpose: Throwing is a meaningful play activity that encourages social interaction, develops the sequencing of motor skills, and signals the onset of toddlerhood. Little published data clearly documents the three-dimensional kinematics of the progression of the overarm throwing motion in children. The purpose of this study is twofold: 1) To explore the biomechanical differences in the overarm throwing techniques of children between the ages of two and seven, and 2) To compare the kinematics of dominant versus non-dominant arm throws in children between the ages of two and seven.

Methods: 1) Nine children, 6 males and 3 females, …

Outcome Study Of Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Of Patients With Patellar Femoral Dysfunction, Thomas D. Henke

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

This study was conducted to assist St. Alexius Medical Center's Institute of Sports Medicine in the analysis of physical therapy outcomes for patients who underwent patellofemoral surgical procedures including lateral retinacular release, vastus medialis oblique advancement, and tibial tubercle transfers. A review of data collected by the physical therapists at St. Alexius was performed and statistically analyzed to determine the efficacy of outcomes both clinically and functionally. This outcome analysis will assist current and future practice patterns by providing a basis for clinical effectiveness. The results of this study will be a useful resource for the facility as a guide …

The Association Of Generalized Joint Hyperlaxity And Occurrence Of Musculoskeletal Injury, Betty Hestekin

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Joint hyperlaxity is a condition characterized by excessive range of motion in joints. Generalized joint hyperlaxity has been associated with musculoskeletal pain. In addition, hyperlaxity has been linked to greater incidences of injury in the high level athlete. However, there is no published data available to assess if hyperlaxity places the general population at a greater risk of incurring musculoskeletal injury.

This study researched the association of generalized joint hyperlaxity and occurrence of musculoskeletal injury in the non-athlete. Subjects were 55 volunteers from a pool of physical therapy students. The subjects completed a survey indicating activity level and injury history. …

Outcome Study Of Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Of Patients With Patellar Femoral Dysfunction, Scott Hurd

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

This study was conducted to assist St. Alexius Medical Center's Institute of Sports Medicine in the analysis of physical therapy outcomes for patients who underwent patellofemoral surgical procedures including lateral retinacular release, vastus medialis oblique advancement, and tibial tubercle transfers. A review of data collected by the physical therapists at St. Alexius was performed and statistically analyzed to determine the efficacy of outcomes both clinically and functionally. This outcome analysis will assist current and future practice patterns by providing a basis for clinical effectiveness. The results of this study will be a useful resource for the facility as a guide …

An Electromyographic Study Of Lower Trapezius Muscle Activity During Exercise In Traditional And Modified Positions, Rebecca Lee. Johnson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Shoulder rehabilitation commonly overlooks the influence of scapular muscles in providing the stability necessary for the shoulder to function properly. When considering muscles acting on the scapulothoracic articulation, literature suggests that the lower trapezius is a key stabilizer of this articulation. Traditionally, the lower trapezius is exercised while the patient is in a prone position with the humerus abducted 1450 while performing forward elevation. Unfortunately, repeated overhead activity has been proven to increase the incidence of shoulder impingement. In an effort to avoid exercising the lower trapezius in a position that would compromise the shoulder complex, a modified position of …

The Effects Of An Accelerated Physical Therapy Protocol On Patients Receiving Standard Open Rotator Cuff Repairs: An Outcome Study, David J. Kohns

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcomes of patients who have undergone physical therapy treatment following rotator cuff surgical repair. Sixty-eight rotator cuff repairs performed between September 1995 and .Iuly 1999 at St. Alexius Medical Center in Bismarck, North Dakota were reviewed retrospectively. Of the 59 patients with rotator cuff repairs who met the criteria for this study, there were 34 males (57.6% of the cases) and 25 females (42.4% of the cases) included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 64.3 years, ranging from 38 to 80 years, with a median age …

Physical Activity: Essential Component In Primary And Secondary Curricula For Lifelong Health, Maril Mccord

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Chronic disease, preventable illness and injury, and growing trends of sedentary behaviors have currently been associated with the American population. It is estimated that 70% of all deaths in America are attributable to chronic disease of a preventable nature. Childhood disease has declined only to be replaced by new waves of social, environmental, and behavioral factors which manifest as health risks. At least 68 million Americans suffer from some form of heart disease while nearly 60% of adults lead sedentary lifestyles. The challenge in the nation is to counter these trends by implementation of policy and programs for healthier habits …

The Effects Of Electromagnetism For The Treatment Of Multiple Sclerosis, Michele A. Morse

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Electromagnetic treatment is one of the highest utilized nontraditional therapeutic methods in the medical field. Scientific research has proposed that people experience improvement in the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) from such treatment. This independent study is a literature review that probes into the proclaimed benefits that a low frequency electromagnetic field posses on the biological system. In order to support or negate these claims, literature and studies explaining how and why this concept is feasible is researched and presented. The review focuses on the effects of the low frequency external electromagnetic field at the cellular level and on central …

Patient Satisfaction Of Physical Therapy Treatment Of Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions, Jennifer Norberg

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Urinary incontinence has been categorized as a pelvic floor dysfunction. There are four main types of incontinence: stress, urge, overflow, and mixed. Pelvic floor dysfunctions have had success with non-surgical treatments. Treatments include biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and pelvic floor muscle exercises.

This study was designed to analyze patient satisfaction with the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunctions by a physical therapist. Surveys were mailed out to discharged participants from a participating facility. The participants were asked to complete and return the survey by mail. The surveys were anonymous, and the responses were kept confidential. Thirty-four surveys were returned out of fifty-five …

The Use Of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation In The Gait Training Of Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Literature Review, Rachel Rolfson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Cerebral palsy is a common developmental disorder that causes a wide array of problems in the population. The manifestations of cerebral palsy commonly interfere with the child's activities of daily living, including the important function of gait. It is therefore important that physical therapists be knowledgeable about the various treatment options used in gait training of children with cerebral palsy, as well as their effectiveness.

Neurodevelopmental techniques (NDT), neurosurgical interventions, and orthotics are just a few of the numerous treatment options available for the gait training of children with cerebral palsy. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) has recently become a popular …

An Electromyographic And Video Motion Analysis Study Of Sprinters At Varying Speeds And Inclines, Christine Ann Rygh

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Athletes desire to succeed in their respective sport. Several training programs claim to enhance athletic performance by loading specific muscles and joints needed for increased speed, power, and strength in a sport specific manner. One such training regimen is the Frappier Acceleration® program, in which the core element involves sprinting on a treadmill at varying speeds and inclines. The purpose of this study is to describe muscle activity and joint motion while running on a treadmill at different speeds and inclines.

Eleven males between the ages of eighteen and twenty-two years of age ran on a treadmill at five different …

The Lymphatic System, Lymphedema, And A Discussion Of Methods For Treatment: A Review Of The Literature, Lisa Schneider

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The condition of lymphedema has a significant impact of the quality of life of the person affected. Few patients are educated about the possibility of developing lymphedema and methods for prevention of lymphedema following surgical removal of lymph nodes or radiation therapy. Also, most physical therapists have received minimal or inadequate training in the area of lymphedema treatment. Hence, physical therapists may actually damage a patient's lymphatic system by using inadequate techniques.

The purpose of this literature review is to examine the lymphatic system, discuss the condition of lymphedema, and review various methods for prevention and treatment of lymphedema in …

Predictors Of Academic Success In The University Of North Dakota Master Of Physical Therapy Program, Sherry Sisneros

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Due to the fact that the number of positions available in the University of North Dakota's Physical Therapy program is few yet the number of qualified applicants is many, the admissions committee has the responsibility to be selective in their process to ensure the most qualified students are admitted. In order to determine the most qualified students, one needs to determine the possible variables that predict not only academic, but clinical success as well.

Data was gathered from 145 students who attended the UND-PT program with admit years of1991-1995. Traditional descriptive and analytical statistics were utilized to describe applicants, outcomes, …

Influence Of Female Hormones On The Anterior Cruciate Ligament, Heather Stone

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Since 1972 the number of female athletes has increased more than 600% to a total of 1.9 million athletes. Unfortunately, "the quest for equal opportunity in sports has led many female athletes to equal opportunity for injuries, especially injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)." For reasons that are still somewhat unclear the ACL injury rate is two to eight times higher for females compared their male counterparts. One intrinsic risk factor, which has devoured attention in recent years, is the influence female hormones have on the structure and integrity of ACL.

The purpose of this independent study was to …

A Comparison Between Edema And Lymphedema, Janelle Sunnarborg

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The terms edema and lymphedema are often used interchangeably but treatment approaches for these forms of swelling differ. The purpose of this paper is to compare the treatments for edema and lymphedema, provide a background in the anatomy of the circulatory system and discuss signs, symptoms, and causes of swelling. Management of edema is directed toward its cause but physical therapy treatment may also be appropriate. Lymphedema remains a risk for years following initial injury, therefore, preventative measures are especially important to address, to decrease the occurrence of cellulitis.

Physical therapy treatment for edema and lymphedema include elevation, compression, exercise, …

An Electromyographic And Video Motion Analysis Study Of The Drawback And Hold Phases Of A Compound Bow Versus A Traditional Bow In Experienced Archers, Andrea L. Vagle

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Background/Purpose: Archery is quickly becoming an increasingly popular sport, with limited research in the training and rehabilitation of archers. The purpose of this study is to identify the major muscles and timing of recruitment during the drawback and hold of a bow, and to determine the presence of differences in this recruitment between a compound and traditional bow.

Subjects/Methods: Seven males between the ages of 36 to 51 years of age completed 6 drawbacks each with a compound bow and a traditional bow. Surface electrodes on the subjects and reflective markers on the bow were used to analyze electromyographic activity …

Emg Analysis Of Trunk Musculature Following A Nine Hole Round Of Golf: The Fatigue Factor, Christine Wellner

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The purpose of this study was to determine the fatigue component in trunk musculature following a simulated 9 hole round of golf by analyzing the EMG output of the erector spinae, gluteus maximus and abdominal oblique muscles during the golf swing.

Four males, ages 22-26 performed 5 EMG monitored golf swings with a driver prior to and following a simulated 9 hole round of golf. The data was subjected to analysis by the Fast Fourier Transformation to determine median frequency.

The results show that a significant shift in median frequency occurred, signifying muscle fatigue, in 2 of the 4 subjects …

The Effect Of Balance Training In Healthy Subjects As Assessed By The Neurocom Balance Master, Joshua Woods

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Balance is a critical component in maintaining optimal function in daily activities, and it is a skill that is frequently affected in individuals who have experienced some type of neurological, vestibular, orthopedic, or musculoskeletal deficit. A successful balance training program that can be used to improve such a person's balance can be of great use and importance to a patient and a therapist. Studies have shown that balance can be improved in subjects with deficits, however little is known about the effects of training on individuals that lack balance impairments. The purpose of this study was to determine if healthy …

A Comparison Study Of Depression In The Elderly: Traveling South Versus Staying In The Midwest For The Winter, Sandra M. Zieffler

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Depression is the primary mental health disorder in the elderly (people 65 years old and older). As the elderly are the fastest growing segment of the population in the United States, an increasing number of elders will be affected by this illness. The purpose of this study was to compare depression in the elderly between those who stay in the Midwest (Minnesota or North Dakota) year-round and those who travel south for all or part of the winter. A four-page self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 227 people thought to be at least 65 years old. The questionnaire consisted of background …

The Relationship Of Female Reproductive Hormones To Lumbopelvic Pain And Musculoskeletal Injuries In The Female Athlete, Christina M. Aksamit

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The increased participation by females in athletics over the past decade, both competitively and leisurely, has brought attention to the number and severity of acquired injuries. Females tend to suffer a greater number of injuries than their male counterparts, and low back pain is also more prevalent in this population. Research is just beginning to focus on female athletes as their own separate entity. The female reproductive hormones have been targeted as a possible cause of many injuries secondary to the chemical and physical changes that occur with their fluctuations.

The purpose of this literature review is to identify the …