Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Expanding The Occupational Therapy Oncology Rehabilitation Program At James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Annalisa M. Rodriguez

Department of Occupational Therapy Entry-Level Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Understanding Athletes’ Experience When Transitioning To Life Beyond Sport, Mary L. Dell'arciprete, M Lauren Dell'arciprete

Department of Occupational Therapy Entry-Level Capstone Projects

Discontinuation may be by choice or may be due to an injury; however most collegiate athletes’ sports engagement ends due to graduation causing them to shift their role in an occupation that played a crucial role in their self-identity. Athletes of all levels are challenged in their transition beyond sport and in the adjustment to the various role changes that occur. A significant life event, such as the end of one’s athletic engagement, can cause a loss of identity, purpose, and mental health decline. Former athletes may experience occupational disruption, a temporary inability to adequately engage in meaningful tasks due …

Implementation Of An Intensive Amplitude-Focused Program With Stroke Patients In An Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting, Lauren R. Lafreniere

Department of Occupational Therapy Entry-Level Capstone Projects

This 16-week capstone experience with Southern Crescent Traumatic Brain Injury Center (SCTBI) focused on creating and implementing an intensive amplitude-focused program to improve functional and motor outcomes in stroke survivors. The student achieved Lee Silverman Voice Treatment-BIG (LSVT-BIG) certification to gain in-depth knowledge regarding neuroplasticity and recalibration of the sensorimotor system through high-amplitude movements. The student utilized the knowledge gained from the certification course to create an intensive high-amplitude program appropriate for acute stroke survivors in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. The program is comprised of exercises that are completed in either supine, seated, or sitting and focus on functional movements …

Incorporating Poi As A Therapeutic Modality For Preschool Aged Children In The Care Clinic, Danielle Zirkle

Department of Occupational Therapy Entry-Level Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Self-Efficacy With Telehealth Examination: The Doctor Of Physical Therapy Student Perspective, Derrick F. Campbell, Jean-Michel Brismee, Brad Allen, Troy L. Hooper, Manuel A. Domenech, Kathleen J. Manella

HPD Articles

Introduction: The shift to telehealth exposed gaps in our understanding of how physical therapy students perceive patient assessment in a remote situation using the examination component of the patient/client management (PCM) model. The purpose of the study was to compare Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students’ self-efficacy performing patient assessment using the examination component of the PCM model using telehealth compared with conventional examination. To achieve the purpose of this study, the Physical Therapist Self-Efficacy (PTSE) scale was used. More specifically, self-efficacy in clinical reasoning was measured using the following items: (1) PTSE total score (2) performance of tests …

Perceptions, Practices, And Barriers Of Athletic Trainers In The Military Setting Using Patient-Reported Outcomes In Practice, Nicole M. Lee, Justin P. Young, Lindsey E. Eberman, Eric Post, Kenneth E. Games

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The majority of athletic trainers (ATs) recognize the importance of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in clinical practice but encounter unique barriers that limit their implementation. There are no studies that have investigated PROs in the military setting. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions, practices, and barriers to implementing PROs in the military setting. Methods: We used a cross-sectional, web-based survey design. Emails were sent to 365 potential participants and 67 were eligible to participate (response rate=18.4%, years practicing in military setting=5.9 ± 5.8years). Participants were invited to complete a web-based survey regarding the uses, benefits, and …

Physical Therapy Students Experience Reductions In Physical Activity And Social Interaction During Coronavirus-Related Curricular Changes: A Cohort Study, Daniel W. Flowers, Amanda Bernard, Erin Mccallister, Lauren Rachal Sant

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic challenged physical therapy students and faculty. The faculty at this institution implemented a modular curriculum progressing from in-person to remote learning to parallel a predicted autumn COVID-19 surge. This study compares the effect of varying educational models on physical therapy students’ physical activity and social isolation outcomes during their program’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We hypothesized that changes in students’ physical activity and social interaction would be observed throughout the semester as the curriculum became more distance based. Methods: This prospective cohort investigation of 42 students from a single physical therapy program …

Telerehabilitation: An Updated View Of Practices, Cost Analysis, And Client Perceptions, Gokcen Akyurek, Selen Aydoner

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Telerehabilitation is an alternative and complementary rehabilitation method in which information and communication technologies are used to remove the distance between healthcare professionals and clients. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the rapid adoption of telerehabilitation services, limiting the in-person rehabilitation services available all over the world. The restrictions that started with the COVID-19 pandemic also negatively affected rehabilitation services, clients, and healthcare professionals, and it was considered essential to provide services using telerehabilitation technology. Therefore, this review aimed to examine and inform health professionals' telerehabilitation practices such as remote assessment, evaluation, intervention, monitoring, supervision, education, and follow-up during the …

Early Assurance Model For Physical Therapy Education: A Descriptive Study, Kimberly Coleman-Ferreira, Ivan Mulligan, Lora Packel

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Introduction: Various curriculum models for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education exist across the country. The purpose of this study was to provide an updated description of the Early Assurance (EA) program model, including administrative variables for institutional leaders to consider. This descriptive study may help equip students to choose an educational program that suits their desires and enable institutions to consider models that fit their needs given their typical admission draw, the local environment, student debt, and resources available. Applications to DPT programs are on the decline while there continues to be an expansion of programs. Institutions are looking …

Leadership Development In Athletic Training: A Qualitative Study, W. David Carr, Tona Hetzler, Stephanie M. Singe, William Pitney

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore how athletic trainers describe their leadership and how the profession can develop future leaders. Methods: Eight participants (four females, four males) completed a phone interview. Interview data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed utilizing a grounded theory approach. The trustworthiness of the data was established by using member checks and triangulation. Results: Characteristics of Leadership theme was defined as 1) Interpersonal Skills, 2) Vision, 3) Pride in Others’ Success, 4) Ethical Decision Making, and 5) Self-Reflective. The Leadership Development theme was characterized by 1) Role Models Professional and Personal, 2) Involvement and …

Rate And Magnitude Of Muscle Temperature Increase With Cycling At Various Intensities, Jennifer Ostrowski, James Scifers

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Anecdotally, athletic training clinicians often have patients "warm up" on a stationary cycle prior to rehabilitation. No previous studies have evaluated the rate or magnitude of muscle temperature increase during a cycling task. Our objective was to determine the rate and magnitude of muscle temperature increase in superficial (2cm) and deep (4cm) muscle during cycling at various intensities. Methods: Randomized, counter-balanced crossover trial conducted at a University research laboratory. Sixteen healthy participants (male=7, female=9; mean age 26±4 years; height 170±10 cm; weight 77±8 kg; adipose thickness 1.4±0.9 cm; muscle thickness 5.1±0.7 cm). Participants performed cycling under 3 intensity conditions: …

Knowledge Of Complementary And Integrative Health Among Collegiate Athletic Trainers, Amanda Flaig, Matthew J. Rivera, Lindsey E. Eberman

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Complementary and integrative health (CIH) interventions are non-mainstream modalities used to complement traditional care and are used by athletic trainers. Interventions encompassing CIH can help provide holistic care that is patient-centered. However, there is no previous research on the attitudes and use of CIH in everyday clinical care. The purpose of this project is to investigate athletic trainers’ use and attitudes towards CIH interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional, web-based survey including demographics, CIH integration, and the Complementary Health Belief Questionnaire (CHBQ) was sent out to a random sample of athletic trainers. Measures of central tendency were calculated to characterize …

Physiotherapy Rehabilitation In Bilateral Lower Limbs Amputations Following Dry Gangrene: A Case Report, Pranali R. Gaikwad, Manish P. Shukla, Santosh P. Dobhal

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background: Bilateral lower limb amputation is becoming more frequent in recent years. This case report will outline the pre-operative and post-operative physiotherapy protocol for bilateral lower limb amputations following dry gangrene. Additionally, this case was evaluated to see if postoperative physiotherapy treatment consisting of prevention of complications, patient education, independent self-care, and functional mobility improved outcome. Case: A 76-year-old man came to the hospital with clinical features of dry gangrene of both feet. Preoperatively he was given education on care for his limbs along with the therapy plan following surgery. Pain on VAS scales were taken prior to surgery and …

Lessons Learnt By An Experienced Clinician-Novice Researcher Throughout The Process Of Qualitative Research Interviewing, Heidi Lavis, Paulette Van Vliet, Meredith Tavener

The Qualitative Report

Within occupational therapy, the complex process of transitioning from clinician to clinician-researcher often presents challenges demanding critical contemplation. Methodological issues and ethical challenges can arise throughout the emergent transition into role duality, potentially impacting upon novice clinician-researcher development, influencing research processes and quality. As part of the Task-AT Home qualitative study, a reflexive critique of interview processes, guided by the reflection-on-action rubric and a typology of catalysts for dual-role experiences was conducted. The reflective critique identified commonalities and differences between clinical and research interviewing. Additionally, through three exemplars of experience, the critique provided insights into how clinical reasoning processes were …

Nicus In The Us: Levels Of Acuity, Number Of Beds, And Relationships To Population Factors., Roberta Pineda, Kati Knudsen, Courtney C. Breault, Elizabeth E. Rogers, Wendy J. Mack, Alicia Fernandez-Fernandez

HPD Articles

OBJECTIVE: To 1) define the number and characteristics of NICUs in the United States (US) and 2) identify hospital and population characteristics related to US NICUs.

STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study of US NICUs.

RESULTS: There were 1424 NICUs identified in the US. Higher number of NICU beds was positively associated with higher NICU level (p < 0.0001). Higher acuity level and number of NICU beds related to being in a children's hospital (p < 0.0001;p < 0.0001), part of an academic center (p = 0.006;p = 0.001), and in a state with Certificate of Need legislation (p = 0.023;p = 0.046). Higher acuity level related to higher population density (p < 0.0001), and higher number of beds related to increasing proportions of minorities in the population up until 50% minorities. There was also significant variation in NICU level by region.

CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes new knowledge by describing an updated registry of NICUs in the US in 2021 that can be used for comparisons and benchmarking.

Self-Modulation Of Rectus Femoris Reflex Excitability In Humans, Kyoungsoon Kim, Tunc Akbas, Robert Lee, Kathleen Manella, James Sulzer

HPD Articles

Hyperreflexia is common after neurological injury such as stroke, yet clinical interventions have had mixed success. Our previous research has shown that hyperreflexia of the rectus femoris (RF) during pre-swing is closely associated with reduced swing phase knee flexion in those with post-stroke Stiff-Knee gait (SKG). Thus, reduction of RF hyperreflexia may improve walking function in those with post-stroke SKG. A non-pharmacological procedure for reducing hyperreflexia has emerged based on operant conditioning of H-reflex, an electrical analog of the spinal stretch reflex. It is currently unknown whether operant conditioning can be applied to the RF. This feasibility study trained 7 …

Exploring Sex As A Moderator Of Other Prognostic Variables In Whiplash Associated Disorder: An Observational Study., Bradford Callan, David M. Walton, Joshua Cleland, Morey J. Kolber, James M. Elliott

HPD Articles

BACKGROUND: Prognostic variables for assessing people with whiplash associated disorder (WAD) following a motor vehicle collision (MVC) have been evaluated in numerous studies. However, there is minimal evidence assessing how these variables may differ between males and females.

QUESTION/PURPOSE: 1) To assess if the sex of a person interacts with known prognostic variables within the development of chronic WAD. 2) To determine if commonly used outcome measures used in the assessment of chronic WAD differ between sexes.

METHODS: The study was a secondary analysis of an observational study with an inception cohort immediately following an MVC in an emergency department …

Does Training With A Simulation Stethoscope Facilitate The Acquisition Of Cardiopulmonary Knowledge And Confidence In Doctor Of Physical Therapy Students, Archana Vatwani, Melissa Morris, Cheryl J. Hill, Alicia Fernandez-Fernandez

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not training with a computerized stethoscope could impact Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student cardiopulmonary assessment knowledge and confidence. Methods: Eighty-seven (87) DPT students in years 2 (DPT2s, n=39) and 3 (DPT3s, n=48) participated after previously completing a cardiopulmonary course. All subjects took a baseline test and confidence survey for cardiopulmonary skills. Two weeks later, DPT2s attended a 1-hour lab session with simulation stethoscopes and did a post-test and survey. Test scores and confidence data were compared within DPT2s, and for DPT2s vs DPT3s. Results: After training, DPT2 …

Does Acute Fatigue Affect Lumbar Proprioception And Balance?, Ozde Depreli, Ender Angin

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: To investigate the acute effects of trunk extensor, abdominal, and calf muscle fatigue on lumbar proprioception and balance. Method: Seventy healthy individuals, aged between 18-25, without pain in the low back and lower extremities, with right dominant lower extremities, were included in the study. Dynamic balance with the Y-balance Test, lumbar proprioception sense with the application of the IOS software, and fatigue level with the 6-20 Borg Scale were evaluated before and immediately after the back extensor, abdominal, and calf muscle fatigue protocols were applied to the individuals at 72-hour intervals. Results: After all fatigue protocols, proprioception sense at …

Exploring The Transtheoretical Model Of Change, Barriers, And Motives To Telemedicine Adoption In Athletic Training, Gabrielle A. Griffin, Kenneth E. Games, David F. Gallegos, Samantha E. Scarneo-Miller, Amanda L. Kottak, Zachary K. Winkelmann

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The delivery of healthcare services by athletic trainers (ATs) has evolved over the past two years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous research has identified an integration of telemedicine as a necessary, urgent replacement for face-to-face patient encounters in athletic training; however, there is a lack of data to support the habitual and intentional change to one’s clinical practice that includes telemedicine. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify and analyze ATs respective stages of change related to telemedicine adoption, as well as explore motivating factors and barriers related to the adoption of telemedicine. Methods: …

Conservative Treatment Of A Symptomatic Os Vesalianum Pedis In A Professional Soccer Player: A Case Report, Mario F. Cruz, Lori A. Bolgla, Ryan Alexander, Peter J. Symbas, Jeremy Royal, Jordan Serrano-Dennis

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Objectives: Symptomatic os vesalianum pedis (OVP), a small accessory bone located adjacent to the base of the 5^th metatarsal of the foot, rarely affects individuals who participate in sports. The condition typically is treated with surgical intervention. This case report documents the examination, evaluation, and treatment approach for a professional soccer player treated conservatively with a symptomatic OVP. Methods: A nineteen-year-old professional soccer player presented with pain to the base of the left 5^th metatarsal. Physical examination and imaging resulted in a diagnosis of a symptomatic OVP. The player underwent a 5-stage criterion-based rehabilitation program. Results: The player …

Relationship Between Allied Health Student's Behavioral Style And Ideal Clinical Instructor Behaviors, Tonya Y. Miller, Robert Creath, Eva M. Frank, Lori Portzer, Jennifer Price

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The focus of this research is to understand the relationship between students' primary DISC behavioral styles (dominant, influencing, steadiness, compliance) and their perception of ideal clinical instructor behaviors. A review of the literature supports the connection between the behaviors of the clinical instructor (CI) and the success of the allied health professional student (AHPS). Additionally, a body of research supports the connection between DISC behavioral styles and student success. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between AHPS primary DISC behavioral styles and their perception of the ideal CI behaviors. Methods: A total number …

Exploring Family-Centered Care From The Perspectives Of Home-Health Physical Therapists, James Mathews

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background and Purpose: Older adults often need caregivers to help them age in place successfully while maximizing their quality of life. These caregivers have the highest rates of burnout, injury, and turnover. Family-centered care (FCC) involves collaboration between the healthcare practitioner and the patient, family members, and caregivers. There is a paucity of evidence on how FCC is applied to older adults and their caregivers. The purpose of this general qualitative study was to explore how a group of home health physical therapists (HHPTS) deliver FCC to care-dependent older adults.

Methods: This general qualitative study used individual, semi-structured interviews with …

Early Identification Of Barriers To Student Success In Physical Therapy Clinical Education: Utilization Of A Week One Clinical Survey Tool, Bridget Eubanks, Jennifer Bunn, Heidi L. Shearin

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of a week-one clinical survey tool for early identification of student perceived barriers, including personal and environmental safety, that may impact success during full-time clinical education experiences (CEE) in physical therapy. Methods: DPT students (n= 81) engaged in full-time CEE in their second and third years were required to complete an online self-designed survey tool regarding perceptions of safety, clinical instructor (CI) satisfaction, and clinical challenges. Students in their third year completed the survey for both experiences. Data were assessed to compare second versus third-year student responses overall …

Comparison Of Flex Vs. Residential Clinical Education Program Outcomes: Physical Therapy Students’ Self-Efficacy, Confidence, And Clinical Competence, Derrick F. Campbell, Jean-Michel Brismee, Brad Allen, Troy L. Hooper, Manuel A. Domenech, Kathleen J. Manella

HPD Articles

Purpose: Alternative flexible (Flex) path Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs may have an emerging footprint. The differences between Flex and traditional residential DPT program clinical experience outcomes remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate Flex and residential DPT students’ clinical reasoning self-efficacy, confidence with treating, and Clinical Performance Instrument (CPI) clinical reasoning and summative scores during clinical experiences.

Methods: A descriptive and exploratory cross-sectional survey was used with a voluntary convenience sample of 211 university DPT students during Fall 2020 full-time clinical experiences. Descriptive and inferential statistics evaluated differences in Flex and residential DPT program students’ …

Occupational Therapists' Experience Of Using Home Adaptation And Assistive Products As Interventions For Older Individuals And Persons With Disabilities In Thailand, Peeradech Thichanpiang, Veerawat Sansri, Surachart Thongchoomsin, Sutinun Juntorn, Thitiya Wangkawan, Supatida Sorasak, Phichaya Baramee, Kannika Permpoonputtana, Chirathip Thawisuk, Chutikorn Nopparat, Anuchart Kaunnil Corresponding Author

The Qualitative Report

As Thailand becomes an aged society it is important to promote advancements in geriatric medicine to provide the best care for older individuals. The right assistive facilities and household mobility equipment are essential for everyday activities. The use of home adaptations and assistive products can maximize the quality of life for older individuals and make life more convenient for those with disabilities. This study aimed to investigate the experience of occupational therapists, using home adaptations and assistive products. An individual interview was conducted with eight occupational therapists who worked at regional hospitals and centers of excellence throughout Thailand using a …

Family Caregivers Of Older Adults With Physical Disabilities In Rural Thailand, Denis Tuttle, Jiranan Griffiths, Anuchart Kaunnil

The Qualitative Report

Thailand is one of many countries experiencing changes in the demographics of its population. People are living longer and having fewer children resulting in an increasing percentage of older adults in the general population. This presents a challenge in providing care for older adults, especially in countries where there is a culture of family caregiving. This study aims to investigate the experience of family caregivers, exploring the problems of caring for older people with physical disabilities and the needs of family caregivers. This is done to better understand ways to support caregivers. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, 15 family caregivers …

Delivering Occupation-Based Practice In Stroke Rehabilitation Of Hospital Settings: Thai Occupational Therapists’ Experiences, Anuchart Kaunnil, Veerawat Sansri, Surachart Thongchoomsin, Kannika Permpoonputtana, Sutinun Juntorn, Kathryn Jarvis, Cristina Reyes Smith, Michael Palapal Sy, Jiranan Griffiths, Chutikorn Nopparat, Peeradech Thichanpiang

The Qualitative Report

Occupation-based practice (OBP) is central to the practice of occupational therapists where occupations or meaningful activities become the focus of the assessment, intervention, and outcomes measurement process. Although occupational therapists practising in Thailand claim that they engage in OBP, this claim warrants empirical investigation. This study aimed to investigate the experiences and perceptions of hospital-based occupational therapists of OBP within stroke rehabilitation. Utilizing a qualitative design, fourteen occupational therapists were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews until data saturation was reached. Each interview was recorded and transcribed verbatim, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five …

Occupational Transitions Of Family Caregivers Of Loved Ones With Dementia, Katherine L. Groezinger, Cameron J. Honsa, Darcey A. Wilkinson, Emily K. Simpson

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The primary purpose of this study was to explore how family caregivers of people with dementia experience transitions in occupations as they assume the caregiver role. Because unpaid family caregivers play a vital part in the scheme of health care, it is important to understand their supports, their perceptions of themselves as caregivers, and the impact of caregiving on relationships, identity, and physical and mental health. Many researchers have studied the effects of caregiver burden, yet minimal attention has been given to the lived experiences of caregiving on their daily roles and routines. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was …

Ethnicity Does Not Impact Physical Therapy Students’ Clinical Readiness And Performance, A United States Exploratory Study, Derrick F. Campbell, Jean-Michel Brismee, Brad Allen, Troy L. Hooper, Manuel A. Domenech, Kathleen J. Manella

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: To explore the impact of ethnicity on clinical readiness and performance among Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students, as determined by 1) Physical Therapist Self-Efficacy (PTSE) score, 2) self-confidence treating patients, and 3) final American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Clinical Performance Instrument (CPI) clinical reasoning and summative ratings during clinical experiences. Methods: This study is a survey-based, descriptive, and exploratory cross-sectional research design involving sample of 211 DPT students evaluated for differences across ethnic students’ groups 1) PTSE score during student clinical experiences, 2) confidence with treating initial and subsequent same-patient visits, and 3) final CPI clinical reasoning …