Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Implementing Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy After Stroke In An Early-Supported Discharge Rehabilitation Service: A Process Evaluation Using Re-Aim Quest, Ashan Weerakkody, Erin Godecke, Barby Singer

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) improves upper limb (UL) function after stroke. Despite extensive evidence supporting its efficacy and multiple clinical practice guidelines recommending its provision, very few eligible stroke survivors receive mCIMT internationally. A multi-modal behaviour change intervention, guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and Behaviour Change Wheel, was implemented across a large early-supported discharge (ESD) rehabilitation service in Perth, Australia, to increase delivery of mCIMT within existing resources. As part of this iterative implementation process, qualitative data from stroke survivors, carers, clinicians and managers informed program adaptations to support sustained mCIMT delivery. This study aimed to …

Co-Design Of A Personalised Physical Activity Intervention For Stroke Survivors, Natalie A. Fini, Emily R. Ramage, Julie R. Bernhardt, Erin M. Bicknell, Chris C.M. Tzefronis, Paul M. Fink, Erin Godecke, Jill L. Francis, Rebecca Wood, Nicole Li, Brandon Lin, Coralie English, Catherine M. Said

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Introduction/ aims: Incorporating the perspectives of knowledge-users such as stroke survivors into intervention development processes can enhance their relevance and feasibility. The aims of this study were: i) to use co-design to determine “active ingredients” and develop a personalised physical activity intervention for stroke survivors, and ii) to evaluate the co-design process. Methods: A four-stage integrated knowledge translation approach (involving planning and workshops) was applied to co-design a post-stroke physical activity intervention. Knowledge-user participants (stroke survivors (n = 10), carers (n = 3) and clinicians (n = 12)) were recruited. Knowledge-user participants (n = 25) and the research team (n …

I Know What To Say Now: Students' Evaluation And Utilisation Of Accidental Counsellor Training, Joanna E. Harnett, Claire E. Ashton-James, James Kite, Tonia Crawford, Sanetta H.J. Du Toit, Leigh A. Wilson, Rosa Howard

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Introduction In 2020 and 2021, 280 health profession students who were engaged in student leadership roles and peer mentoring were invited to undertake extracurricular training in accidental counselling to build skills in recognising and responding to a person in distress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of the online training course, and to explore students’ confidence to use Accidental Counsellor tools to support peers in distress after completion of the training course. Methods A retrospective cohort study including a post- intervention only design was used. A survey was administered approximately 12 months after 225 students completed …

Integrated Upper Limb And Language Impairment And Functional Training (Uplift) After Stroke: Study Protocol For An Umbrella Bayesian Optimal Phase Iia Clinical Trial, Kathryn S. Hayward, Geoffrey Donnan, Erin Godecke, Anna Balabanski, Ruth Barker, Julie Bernhardt, Sandra Brauer, Amy Brodtmann, Emily Brogan, Sonia Brownsett, Paul Chapman, David Copland, Elise Cowley, Emily Dalton, Fiona Ellery, Paul Fink, Carlos Garcia Esperon, Annie J. Hill, Heidi Janssen, Siobhan Kavanagh, Timothy Kleinig, Liudmyla Olenko, Joanne J.E. Quek, Trevor Russell, Moira Smith, Lillian Taylor

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Introduction One in six stroke survivors continue to experience arm and language disability at 3 months post-stroke. This study aims to identify which model(s) of integrated UPper limb and Language Impairment and Functional Training (UPLIFT) show promise for people 3 months to 24 months post-stroke. We hypothesise that at least one promising UPLIFT model of rehabilitation will be identified. Methods and analysis This is an adaptive Phase IIa master protocol umbrella design that includes four simultaneous Bayesian Optimal Phase II studies to evaluate individual UPLIFT interventions against prespecified objective performance criteria. The intervention is upper limb and language training at …

Evaluation Of A Theoretical And Experiential Training Programme For Allied Healthcare Providers To Prescribe Exercise Among Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: A Co-Designed Effectiveness-Implementation Study, Yvonne C. Learmonth, Georgios Mavropalias, Kym Wansbrough

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent neurological disorder in young adults, characterised by physical, psychological and cognitive dysfunction. Exercise training is a safe management strategy. Healthcare providers (HCPs) acknowledge deficiencies in awareness, counselling strategies, and resources that prevent them from promoting and prescribing this effective treatment. We implemented an online evidence-based educational programme and evaluated the effect, acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of the programme in improving HCP confidence, knowledge, and attitudes towards remote exercise prescription to persons with MS. Methods: Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists were recruited and received the educational programme (online theory and 16-week experience of prescribing …

Understanding The Role Of Sports Injury Management By Australian Osteopaths: A Cross Sectional Survey Of 992 Practitioners, Brett Vaughan, Jon Adams, Wenbo Peng, Lauren V. Fortington, Michael Fleischmann, Kylie Fitzgerald, Amie Steel, David Sibritt

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Sport-related injuries are common presentations to primary care and hospital settings. Australian osteopaths practice mainly in private clinical settings in which the frequency of sport-related injury presentations, and how these injuries are managed, is unknown. The objective of the study was to describe the demographic, practice, and clinical management characteristics of Australian osteopaths who report often treating sport-related injuries. The study is a secondary analysis of data derived from the Australian osteopathy practice-based research network. Respondents indicated the frequency treating sports-related injuries in addition to other demographic, practice, and patient management characteristics. Backward logistic regression identified significant characteristics associated with …

The Cortical Motor Map For The Extensor Digitorum Communis Muscle Fails To Increase In Treatment-Related Clinically Significant Upper Limb Post-Stroke Recovery, Tomoko Kitago, Joshua Silverstein, Michael B. Gerber, Charlene Thomas, Linda M. Gerber, Gary W. Thickbroom, Dylan J. Edwards

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objectives: Cortical reorganization has been proposed as a mechanism for motor recovery of the upper limb. The objective of this study was to determine if intervention-related clinical improvement in post-stroke hemiparesis is associated with enlarged motor cortex representation. Methods: Data were analyzed from a single site subset of the NICHE trial. Clinical assessments of upper limb movement (Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Motor Assessment, FM-UE, Action Research Arm Test, ARAT, and Wolf Motor Function Test, WMFT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) motor mapping of the extensor digitorum communis (EDC) muscle were performed in 23 participants (3–12 months post-stroke, 10 female, 40–88 yrs) …

Finger Orthoses For Rehabilitation―Part I: Biomedical Insights And Additive Manufacturing Innovations, Alireza Nouri, Lijing Wang, Hamed Bakhtiari, Yuncang Li, Cuie Wen

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Finger orthoses are essential for treating injuries, deformities, and disorders of the upper limbs by supporting, immobilizing, or correcting deformities. Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) printing have significantly enhanced precision and customization compared to traditional fabrication methods such as thermoplastic molding, plaster or fiberglass casting, and the use of prefabricated splints. Methods: The present review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and other databases with keywords such as “hand therapy”, “additive manufacturing”, “finger and thumb”, and “orthosis”. Only English-language publications were considered, with a primary focus on articles published between 2010 and 2025. Key themes were identified and categorized into …

Resistance Exercise Dose Effects On Muscle Morphology, Muscle Function And Quality Of Life In Advanced-Stage Ovarian Cancer Survivors, Christelle Schofield, Marit Mol, Dennis R. Taaffe, Laurien M. Buffart, Pedro Lopez, Robert U. Newton, Daniel A. Galvão, Paul A. Cohen, Carolyn J. Peddle-Mcintyre

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: Advanced-stage ovarian cancer survivors often have compromised muscle morphology (muscle mass and density), muscle function (muscle strength and physical function), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We recently reported improvements in these outcomes following resistance training. Information on the resistance exercise dose required to improve health-related outcomes is still lacking in this cancer group. Here we examined the exercise dose delivered and the effect of the delivered dose on changes in outcomes of interest. Methods: Twelve women with stage III or IV ovarian cancer completed a 12-week supervised resistance exercise intervention. Exercise metrics included compliance (exercise dose completed), dose …

I Couldn't Change His Nappy: New Mothers' Experiences Of De Quervain's Tendinosis And Its Impact On Occupational Performance, Caroline Khama, Marina Ciccarelli, Julie Brayshaw, Megan Hatfield, Thuy Tran

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Introduction: De Quervain's stenosing tendinosis (DQST) is common in new mothers because of awkward wrist postures during repetitive mothering occupations such as nursing and lifting their baby. However, little is known about how DQST affects occupations of first-time mothers. This study aimed to explore the experiences of first-time mothers living with DQST and how it affects performance of their motherhood occupations. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study design was used. Participants were 15 first-time mothers of a child aged ≤24 months, with a current or previous diagnosis of DQST, and/or non-trauma-related symptoms of pain, tenderness, and/or swelling near the base of …

Effectiveness Of Additional Or Standalone Corticosteroid Injections Compared To Physical Therapist Interventions In Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis Of Randomized Controlled Trials, Stefano Giuseppe Lazzarini, Riccardo Buraschi, Joel Pollet, Francesco Bettariga, Simone Pancera, Paolo Pedersini

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Importance. Rotator cuff tendinopathy represents the most prevalent cause of shoulder pain, the third most common musculoskeletal disorder after low back pain and knee pain. Objective. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of corticosteroid injection(s), alone or in combination with anesthetic injection or any other physical therapist interventions, compared to physical therapist interventions alone in adults with rotator cuff tendinopathy. Design. This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PubMed, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, Web of Science, and Physiotherapy Evidence …

Translating Acceptability To Sustained Delivery: Clinician And Manager Perspectives On Implementing Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy In An Early-Supported Discharge Rehabilitation Service, Ashan Weerakkody, Erin Godecke, Barby Singer

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) improves upper limb (UL) function after stroke. Despite up to one-third of stroke survivors being eligible, clinical uptake remains poor. To address this, a multi-modal behaviour change intervention was implemented across a large seven-site early-supported discharge (ESD) rehabilitation service. This study investigated the acceptability of mCIMT implementation within this ESD service and identified adaptations required for sustained delivery.

Methods: This qualitative study was nested within a mixed-methods process evaluation of mCIMT implementation. Four focus groups (n = 24) comprising therapists (two groups), therapy assistants (one group), and allied health managers (one group) were conducted. …

Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy After Stroke: A Process Evaluation Of Implementation In An Early-Supported Discharge Rehabilitation Service, Ashan Bimalka Weerakkody

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Background

Modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) improves upper limb (UL) function after stroke, but its routine delivery in rehabilitation settings remains limited.

Aims

The objectives were to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of implementing mCIMT within an early-supported discharge (ESD) rehabilitation service, using existing resources and staffing.

Aims were to:

• Develop and deliver a multi-modal behaviour change intervention to clinicians to increase mCIMT delivery.
• Explore the acceptability of mCIMT among stroke survivors, carers, therapists, and allied health managers.
• Identify program adaptations to better suit stakeholder needs.
• Evaluate the process of implementing mCIMT in the ESD service.

Methods

This thesis …

Barriers And Motivators To Attending Group Exercise Classes In Women With Anxiety, Depression And Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sarah Ford

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Research has demonstrated the positive effect of exercise on mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Studies have also investigated the barriers and motivators that women in particular experience when contemplating the ways in which to engage in physical activity. However, a literature gap exists regarding women who experience anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and the barriers and motivators that they specifically navigate when looking to attend group exercise classes. In this body of research for the award of Master of Medical and Health Science by Research, a scoping review was first conducted …

The Interplay Between Injury And Body Composition With Performance In Police Recruits, Vanessa Sutton

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

The occupational demands of policing are challenging and potentially hazardous, with substantial rates of musculoskeletal injuries occurring during recruit training. Academy injury prevalence can be as high as one in five recruits. Injuries impact performance, result in lost training, and impose financial burdens on police agencies. However, limited research has explored pre-injury body composition or musculoskeletal characteristics in relation to police recruit performance. This thesis investigates injuries, body composition and musculoskeletal characteristics in physical performance and injury risk among law enforcement recruits.

Study One quantified prevalence and severity of pre-academy injuries and association with performance. Among 121 recruits, nearly half …

Post-Stroke Lateropulsion In Australia And New Zealand: A Survey Investigating Current Knowledge, Priorities And Practice, Jessica Nolan, Angela Jacques, Barbara Singer

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Post-stroke lateropulsion is prevalent and associated with poor rehabilitation outcomes, but evidence to guide rehabilitation of affected stroke survivors is limited. Current post-stroke lateropulsion rehabilitation practice across Australia and New Zealand has not been previously described. Objectives: This study aimed to describe lateropulsion rehabilitation practice in Australia and New Zealand, determine clinicians,’ educators’ and researchers’ opinions about the need for educational resources to guide best-practice, and to identify current barriers to, and enablers of, optimal rehabilitation delivery. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was distributed to stroke rehabilitation clinicians, educators and researchers across Australia and New Zealand using Qualtrics. Data were …

The Potential Impact Of Social Prescribing On Meaningful Engagement In Collective Aged Care Settings: Perspectives From The Global South, Melissa Kilian, Tania Rauch Van Der Merwe, Itumeleng Tsatsi, Ronelle Jansen, Marieta Visser, Rayne Stroebel, Sanetta Henrietta Johanna Du Toit

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Promoting collective care philosophies in residential aged care homes that enhances person-centred care remains a global challenge. More success is evident when an organisation’s approach to care impacts the well-being of everyone who lives and works in the home. However, funding systems are seldom applied in favour of a collective approach. The uptake of social prescribing is potential yet another obstacle in eradicating the prevailing dominance of the medical model of care in aged care homes. Objective: In the Global South, institutionalised care is becoming a more acceptable and viable option to ensure health and well-being of older adults. …

People With Hip Osteoarthritis Have Reduced Quadriceps Voluntary Activation And Altered Motor Cortex Function, Myles C. Murphy, Molly Coventry, Janet L. Taylor, Ebonie K. Rio, Andrea B. Mosler, Jackie L. Whittaker, Christopher Latella

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aims: Compare quadriceps voluntary activation, corticospinal and intracortical excitability between people with and without hip osteoarthritis (OA). Exploratory objectives include quantifying the association of corticospinal/intracortical excitability with voluntary activation, corticospinal/intracortical excitability with hip related pain, and motor threshold with motor cortex inhibition and facilitation. Methods: Case-control study including participants with clinically and radiologically confirmed hip OA and non-OA controls. Quadriceps voluntary activation was assessed using twitch interpolation via femoral nerve stimulation. Single- and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation over the motor cortex assessed resting motor threshold (RMT), active motor threshold (AMT), short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), intracortical facilitation (ICF) and silent period. …

Empowerment Through Choice: The Interplay Of Choice And Control After Spinal Cord Or Brain Injury, Gisela Van Kessel, Shylie Mackintosh, Carolyn M. Murray, Michelle Guerin, Caroline Elizabeth Fryer, Mandy Stanley

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Purpose: To gain knowledge of the early phase post-injury experiences related to choice and control for individuals living with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury, as well as their caregivers. Materials and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted to understand the experiences of individuals with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury and their caregivers in the early phase post-injury, focusing on the aspects of choice and control. Nine individuals with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury and four of their caregivers participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes …

Investigating The Acceptability Of Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy Among Stroke Survivors And Carers: A Qualitative Study, Ashan Weerakkody, Erin Godecke, Barby Singer

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Purpose: To investigate the acceptability of modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) among stroke survivors and carers within an early-supported discharge (ESD) service, and to inform further adaptations of the program to enhance acceptability. Methods: Qualitative study within a mixed methods process evaluation of mCIMT implementation. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and mapped to the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation- Behaviour (COM-B) model. Results: Fifteen stroke survivors and ten carers participated. Five themes were generated and mapped to the COM-B. Participants attributed functional improvements to the program whilst also encountering several challenges with returning home after stroke (Capability- physical); the …

Effects Of A 6-Month Dual-Task, Power-Based Exercise Program On Cognitive Function, Neurological And Inflammatory Markers In Older Adults: Secondary Analysis Of A Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial, Jamie L. Tait, Rachel L. A. Duckham, Timo Rantalainen, Catherine M. Milte, Luana C. Main, Caryl A. Nowson, Kerrie M. Sanders, Dennis R. Taaffe, Keith D. Hill, Gavin Abbott, Robin M. Daly

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Functional power-based exercise training can improve physical performance in older adults and cognitive training can improve measures of cognition, but their combined effects on cognition and related risk factors (neurological and inflammatory markers) remains uncertain. This 6-month cluster randomised controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of dual-task functional power training (DT-FPT) on cognition and circulating neurological and inflammatory markers in older adults at increased falls risk, and whether intervention responses varied by apolipoprotein-E (ApoE) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphisms. Three hundred residents aged ≥ 65 years at increased falls risk residing in 22 independent-living retirement communities, were randomised by …

The Effects Of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation During Extended Reality Exercises For Cortical, Neuromuscular, And Clinical Recovery Of Stroke Survivors, Cassio V.M. Ruas, Bruna M. Carlos, Saulo Feitosa, Márcio Vinícius Silva, Pedro Vazquez, Larissa L. Pontes, Jayne Silvestre, Sara R.M. Almeida, Alexandre F. Brandão, Gabriela Castellano

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Rehabilitation methods that include anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) and extended reality (XR) exercises have been used to enhance neural networks and improve functional performance in stroke patients, but the neuromuscular and neurophysiological mechanisms underlying these improvements are not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of atDCS during XR rehabilitation exercises on cortical, neuromuscular, and clinical outcomes of stroke survivors. Methods: Nineteen chronic stroke survivors were placed into either a transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or a Sham group, without significant (p > 0.73) differences in the baseline levels of disability between groups. …

Travel Therapy: Simple Exercise Interventions For Osteoporosis Patients, Jun Wen, Fangli Hu, Yuan Chai

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

No abstract provided.

Understanding The Lived Experiences Of Individuals With Functional Neurological Disorders (Fnd) In Australia, Omid Rezaei, Mandy Stanley

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Purpose: This study aims to explore the lived experiences of individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) in Australia, focusing on the challenges they face in daily life, healthcare interactions, and service access. Materials and methods: A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 11 participants diagnosed with FND. Data were analysed thematically to identify key issues impacting their experiences. Results: Five key themes emerged: (1) disruptions in daily life due to symptoms, (2) a prolonged and frustrating diagnostic journey, (3) difficulties accessing healthcare services in regional areas, (4) societal misconceptions and stigma surrounding FND, and (5) financial strain linked …

Reduced Achilles Tendinopathy Symptoms (E.G. Stiffness), But Not Pain, Relate To Patient-Perceived Resolution Of Achilles Tendinopathy: A Cross-Sectional Study, Myles C. Murphy, Fletcher Bright, George White, Ruth L. Chimenti, Andrea B. Mosler, Ebonie K. Rio

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

We aimed to determine whether pain, symptoms and/or physical function are associated with perceived recovery in people with current or resolved Achilles tendinopathy. We performed a cross-sectional cohort study, including people who reported having either “current” or “resolved” Achilles tendinopathy. Participants completed an online survey, including the Tendinopathy Severity Assessment- Achilles (TENDINS-A). We used multivariable binary logistic regression and reported odds ratio (OR) to quantify the strength of the association. We included 100 cases (n = 63 current, n = 37 resolved). There were no associations of age, sex, BMI, TENDINS-A (Pain) or TENDINS-A (Physical Function) with whether participants reported …

Exercise Parameters To Consider For Achilles Tendinopathy: A Modified Delphi Study With International Experts, Yoann Demangeot, Seth O’Neill, Francis Degache, Amandine Rapin, Umer Asgher, Hakan Alfredson, Rachel Chester, Ruth L. Chimenti, Robert Jan De Vos, Adrian Escriche-Escuder, Kenneth Farnqvist, Bas Habets, Nicola Maffulli, Stig Peter Magnusson, Peter Malliaras, Myles C. Murphy, Craig R. Purdam, Jonathan D. Rees, Ebonie K. Rio, Igor Sancho, Alex Scott, Karin Gravare Silbernagel, Vincent Gremeaux, Francois C. Boyer, Redha Taiar

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

To assess the level of agreement among experts on the heel raise exercise parameters that influence midportion and insertional Achilles tendinopathy (AT) rehabilitation outcomes. An international expert panel in AT rehabilitation was invited to complete a three-round Delphi survey. In the first two rounds, experts were asked to review a pregenerated list of exercise parameters (based on the heel raise exercise) and rate their perceived influence on rehabilitation outcome, using a 5-point Likert scale. For each parameter, consensus criteria for major influence on rehabilitation were (a) median≥4, (b) ≥75% of scoring 4 or 5 and (c) IQR≤1. The third round …

Exploring Patients' Views Regarding The Support And Rehabilitation Needs Of People Living With Myocardial Ischaemia And No Obstructive Coronary Arteries: A Qualitative Interview Study, Helen Humphreys, Danielle Paddock, Sarah Brown, Aynsley Cowie, Colin Berry, Susan Dawkes, Simon Nichols

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to generate new qualitative insights to understand the rehabilitation needs of people living with a confirmed or presumed diagnosis of ischaemia with no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA), explore which aspects of current cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation programmes could meet the needs of people with INOCA and where adjustments (if any) may be appropriate. DESIGN: Semistructured qualitative interview study. PARTICIPANTS: Interviews were undertaken (n=17; 88% female, age range 31-69 years) with people with a confirmed or presumed diagnosis of INOCA. RESULTS: Findings highlighted concerns around a lack of evidence-based guidance for cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation programmes for …

Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (Tdcs) Modulates Quadriceps Motor Cortex Inhibition And Facilitation During Rehabilitation Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament (Acl) Reconstruction: A Triple-Blind, Randomised Controlled Proof Of Concept Trial, Myles Calder Murphy, Colin Sylvester, Casey Whife, Peter D'Alessandro, Ebonie Kendra Rio, Ann Maree Vallence

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objectives Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), maladaptive changes occur in the motor cortex representation of the quadriceps, evidenced by increases in intracortical inhibition and facilitation. The primary objective of this proof-of-concept study was to determine if anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can alter quadriceps intracortical inhibition and facilitation in an early-ACLR population after 6 weeks of application during exercise. Methods We performed a randomised, triple-blind controlled trial for proof of concept comparing anodal-tDCS to sham-tDCS following ACLR. Anodal-tDCS or sham-tDCS was delivered to the primary motor cortex for 20 min, three times per week, for 6 weeks from …

Process Evaluation Of A Randomised Controlled Trial Intervention Designed To Improve Rehabilitation Services For Aboriginal Australians After Brain Injury: The Healing Right Way Trial, Judith M. Katzenellenbogen, Jane White, Melanie Robinson, Sandra C. Thompson, Amy Epstein, Mandy Stanley, Jane Klobas, Emma Haynes, Elizabeth A. Armstrong, Juli Coffin, Rachel Skoss

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Healing Right Way (HRW) aimed to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal Australians with stroke or traumatic brain injury by facilitating system-level access to culturally secure rehabilitation services. Using a stepped-wedge randomised controlled trial (RCT) design (ACTRN12618000139279, 30/01/2018), a two-pronged intervention was introduced in four rural and four urban hospitals, comprising 1.Cultural security training (CST) for staff and 2.Training/employment of Aboriginal Brain Injury Coordinators (ABIC) to support Aboriginal patients for 6-months post-injury. Three-quarters of recruited patients lived rurally. The main outcome measure was quality-of-life, with secondary outcomes including functional measures, minimum processes of care (MPC); number rehabilitation occasions of service …

Organ Pedalboard As A Rehabilitation Tool: A Qualitative Exploratory Study Of Healthcare Providers’ Perceptions And Recommendations, Mandy M.P. Kan, Wai Hang Kwok, Eric C. Fan, Fadi M. Al Zoubi

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Objective This qualitative study explored healthcare providers’ perceptions and attitudes regarding the use of organ pedalboards as a rehabilitation tool, particularly for lower extremity conditions. The study also sought to identify the perceived barriers and facilitators to adopting organ pedalboards within rehabilitation settings, as well as gather healthcare providers’ recommendations for integrating this tool into clinical practice. Method Healthcare providers, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, music therapists, and sports therapists, were recruited for focus group interviews using purposive and snowball sampling. At the outset of the interview, participants watched an organist playing musical notes on a pedalboard and had the opportunity …