Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

The Use Of Functional Electrical Stimulation (Fes) To Produce Functional Movement In Individuals With Paraplegia, Melissa Jendro

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects approximately 7600 to 11000 people per year, and alters every aspect of the individuals' lives. SCI primarily affects young Caucasian adults. The majority are between 16 to 30 years old, with the average age being 19. Motor vehicle accidents account for 35% to 40% of SCI cases reported, with violence in close second at 25%. Currently, the highest neurological category is of complete paraplegia followed by incomplete quadriplegia. SCIs often cause many complications due to decreased physical activity and changes in bodily functions.

Among treatment options, functional electrical stimulation (FES) is used to restore a …

Physical Therapy Faculty Burnout: A Survey, Donna J. Mcleod

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Burnout is a serious concern in today's world, especially in the educational setting. Burnout not only affects the individual physically and emotionally, but it can also affect the work place. More specifically it can lead to increased absenteeism, job turnover, and other work associated withdrawal behaviors. Furthermore, burnout has the potential of affecting many other people above and beyond that individual who is burned out.

At this time, new physical therapy programs continue to be developed across the United States, although there is already a limited number of faculty in the physical therapy field. Therefore, due to the physical therapy …

An Electromyographic And Video Analysis Study Of The Shoulder Girdle Musculature Activity During Exercise With The Multi Sport Cord, Melanie Michaels

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Purpose: The Multi Sport Cord is a resistive device used to strengthen the shoulder girdle musculature. The purpose of this study is to determine which shoulder girdle muscles are active, as well as when they are active throughout the range of motion of selected therapeutic exercises with the Multi Sport Cord.

Methods: Five healthy male subjects (ages 23-28) without shoulder pathology were recruited for this study. The subjects performed five exercises two times each: once with the Multi Sport Cord and once with a free weight. The selected exercises were the following: sidelying external rotation, prone external rotation, standing external …

The Effects Of A Dorsiflexor Strengthening And Plantarflexor Stretching Program On Balance In The Elderly: A Pilot Study, Danielle R. Mongeon

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Today, falls have become the most common life-threatening hazard in seniors. Falls have been associated with a number of disabilities including the muscular weakness and decreased flexibility that accompany aging. These factors may be involved in the poor balance that has also been idetified as a risk factor for falling. It was the purpose of this research project to: (1) determine if the exercises prescribed to increase strength and flexibility of the ankle were effective in a control group of ten college students, and (2) to test the effects of a plantarflexor stretching and dorsiflexor strengthening program on balance in …

Video Education And Mechanical Traction, Tiffany A. Orth

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

I began this endeavor with several goals to accomplish. The main goal is to provide an educational video that may be used as a supplementary tool to PT 319: Techniques ll. Theory and Technique of Thermo-Photo-Hydrotherapy. This video will demonstrate mechanical lumbar traction in the supine and prone positions as well as cervical traction in the seated and supine positions. The use of video in education enhances the transfer of information from instructor to student by providing consistent information, repetition, easy use, and realism. Included with the video is a study guide that contains detailed listings of traction information that …

Outcome Based Study Of 1994 Physical Therapy Graduates, Tracey A. Pudenz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Evaluation in physical therapy programs is necessary for reassessing and updating curricula to meet the changing needs of the profession and Accreditation Standards. This study addresses program evaluation within the University of North Dakota Department of Physical Therapy (UND-PT).

Questionnaires were developed and mailed to the 1994 UND-PT graduates, and their employers and patients in November, 1995. This study formalizes the data collected from these questionnaires and identifies the strengths and weaknesses of the UND-PT program as it relates to curriculum.

Twenty-four of the graduate questionnaires were returned for a response rate of 52%. The returned employer questionnaires represented 27 …

Diagnostic And Rehabilitation Techniques For Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, Aaron Reinhardt

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a disorder of the peripheral vestibular system that results in vertigo, nystagmus, and often nausea and vomiting. BPPV has been treated in the past by a variety of rehabilitation approaches. Today, physical therapists are becoming an integral part of the rehabilitation of these patients. The purpose of this study is to review the diagnostic and treatment techniques currently being used to rehabilitate patients diagnosed with BPPV. This will be accomplished by thoroughly examining the anatomical and physiological processes involved in BPPV. Once these are discussed, the diagnostic process will be explored. Finally, all current …

A Comparison Of Botox Injections To Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy In The Treatment Of Spasticity, Katherine S. Rogers

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Following certain types of perinatal or adult-onset brain damage spasticity is the common feature. A persons's disability can be greatly increased secondary to spasticity, which may present a major problem in the restoration of motor function.

Depending on the cause and location of brain injury, the clinical characteristics of spasticity can vary in signs and severity. These varying signs include flexor spasms in the patient with the spinal injury, dystonic posturing in the patient with hemiplegia and spastic diplegia in the child with cerebral palsy. It is apparent that many factors are involved with augmented reflexes and the list of …

Mechanical Biofeedback For Treatment Of Female Urinary Incontinence, Rhonda J. Salentiny

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Urinary incontinence (UI), the involuntary loss of urine so severe as to have social and/or hygienic consequences, is becoming a medical diagnosis for which patients are referred to physical therapy. It is estimated that between 10 and 12 million American adults suffer from UI. Conservative treatment including physical therapy is sought for UI because of its superior cure rate compared to surgical intervention.

The purpose of this study is to educate its readers on the types, anatomy, physiology, and conservative treatments of UI. Most importantly, however, is the understanding of how pelvic floor exercises (PFE) with use of mechanical biofeedback …

Lower Extremity Strength Training To Decrease Falls In The Elderly, Kelly L. Spadolini

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

p>As the elderly population grows, the health care needs of people over the age of sixty-five will dominate the medical profession. Methods of prevention of health problems are key to providing the optimal medical care. Falling has been reported as the most prevalent means of injury in older people. One third of all seniors living in the community and one half of those residing in nursing homes fall each year. Research indicates that elderly people who fall have weaker lower extremity strength than elderly people who do not fall. As a result, some clinicians have incorporated strengthening regiments into …

Child Abuse And Its Implications For Physical Therapists, Tanya Surdez

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Child abuse has existed for many centuries, but has only recently been recognized as a serious social problem. Child abuse affects millions of children each year from all income, racial and ethnic groups; thereby affecting society as a whole. Many studies have shown the devastating psychological, social, cognitive and physical effects of child abuse. There are a limited number of studies that demonstrate the role of physical therapists in working with victims of abuse. It is necessary that therapists learn to recognize signs and symptoms of abuse and know the appropriate action to take.

The purpose of this study is …

Athletic Nutrition, Glenn M. Taira

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Science has broken down many of the barriers that once kept athletes from performing at their very best. This has been done through the scientific study of athletes and the development of a combination of proper training, technique, mental attitude, and nutrition. While training and technique are variables that come with time and practice, proper nutrition can produce positive changes in an athlete's performance in a relatively short period of time. Eating the right kinds of foods, in the right proportions, for a given type of athletic event (Le. aerobic, anaerobic, strength, and muscular definition) can provide an athlete the …

A Literature Review Of Alcohol Abuse And Dependence, Julie R. Vaughan

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Alcohol abuse and/or dependence poses significant risks to a person's health. The negative effects and consequences of alcohol abuse and/or dependence has been well documented in the literature. Many people who are either alcohol abusers or alcohol dependent are admitted to hospitals with neurological deficits, medical complications and traumatic injuries. Often times an etiology related to alcohol abuse is ignored.

This population may be referred to physical therapy for rehabilitation. Functional outcomes and compliance are often unsatisfactory with this population. A better understanding of alcohol abuse and/or dependence could help identify persons at risk and improve functional outcomes.

The purpose …

A Literature Review Of The Fundamentals Of Hippotherapy, Laura Weisberg

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

For centuries, horses have been used to help rehabilitate people with neuromuscular disorders. However, not until recently has it been recognized as a treatment modality utilized in the practice of physical therapy. Hippotherapy is implemented by a licensed therapist who uses the multifaceted movement of the horse as a treatment modality to address a broad range of special needs in individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, there is limited information provided on this subject.

In a review of the literature, I will discuss the history, the different theories, the treatment techniques, and the research that has been done on hippotherapy. The purpose …

A Visual Teaching Aid For A Pediatric Aquatic Physical Therapy Program, Saundi Wilson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Aquatic therapy is quickly becoming a popular form of treatment in pediatric physical therapy. The unique properties of water allow children with disabilities to exercise and experience movement that they are often unable to experience on land. Despite the numerous benefits of aquatic therapy, few resources are available which visually demonstrate suggestions for the use of this form of treatment. A visual teaching aid would provide students and professionals in physical therapy with exposure to aquatic therapy treatment techniques with a pediatric population.

The purpose of this study will be to research and review the literature regarding aquatic therapy and …

A Physical Therapy Perspective On Rotator Cuff Disease, Tiffany R. Wirz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Rotator Cuff disease is one of the most common shoulder problems seen in the medical setting today. It spans all ages ranging from the young athlete who suffers from overuse syndrome to the older individual who experiences decreased function due to degenerative changes within the shoulder joint.

The chief causes of rotator cuff tears are traumatic il1iury and degenerative changes. Tears resulting from trauma usually occur from a lateral blow to the shoulder. Degenerative changes in the rotator cuff result from many factors. These factors include: decreased vascularity, age, shape of the acromion, repetitive trauma, scapular instability, and muscular weakness. …

Management Of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome By Physical Therapy: An Outcome Study, Jouni Zidbeck

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a disorder caused by compression of the brachial nerve plexus or subclavian artery or vein as they pass through a potentially limited space in the anterolateral neck and proximal shoulder. An individual with a predisposition for TOS due to his or her anatomy may have an onset of symptoms due to many different etiologies including acute injury and prolonged postural abnormalities. Although conservative management by physical therapy cannot replace surgery in severe or complicated cases of TOS, it is, nevertheless, the recommended first treatment choice. The purpose of this study was to assess the success …

Subtalar Joint Biomechanics, Tom L. Baumgartner

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Subtalar joint movement is transmitted proximally to the lower extremity and distally to the forefoot during gait. Thus, the entire lower kinetic chain is influenced by abnormal subtalar joint biomechanics. If the subtalar joint is forced to compensate for structural deformities of the foot and leg, various lower extremity injuries are likely to develop. The purpose of this study is to examine the normal and abnormal biomechanics of the subtalar joint. In the process, the clinician will be able to identify various subtalar joint abnormalities and relate these to their respective lower kinetic chain pathologies. By correctly assessing the cause …

Physical Therapy Interventions For Falls In The Elderly, Melanie Benson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The elderly in America represent a population that is continually growing. As part of the aging process, various changes occur that contribute to falls. Therefore, as the number of elderly people in America increases, the possibility of falls in the elderly also increases.

The consequences of falls in the elderly are significant. Some of the more serious consequences include functional decline, increased medical cost, and death. Therefore, the scope of the problem is clear; strategies to prevent falls and treat those who have fallen are indicated.

The purpose of this independent study is to review the literature pertaining to falls …

The Relationship Between Vertical Jump Scores And Peak Force Measurements Of An Isokinetic Leg Press, David M. Silkey

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

This study evaluated potential correlations between related closed kinematic chain strength measurements on a Kin-Com isokinetic machine and a functional strength test. The correlation between standing vertical jump height and isokinetic leg press measurements were statistically analyzed. The following measurements were obtained from 22 subjects (mean age of 24.4 years): a body weight measurement, a vertical jump score, and the force measurements of an isokinetic leg press at 90°/second on each leg. Pearson correlation coefficients were significant (p < .001) when power quotient scores (vertical jump height multiplied by body weight) were compared to leg press results. However, second-order partial correlation coefficients did not find a significance (p > .005) between vertical jump scores and isokinetic leg press results when weight and gender were considered. A significant difference (p < .001) existed between left leg press and right leg press measures. Although isokinetics are useful for lower extremity assessment, this study found that the isokinetic leg press may not be appropriate in determining functional ability.

Functional Electrical Stimulation As A Treatment For Spinal Cord Injuries, Gail Garrett

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Injury of the spinal cord resulting in quadriplegia or paraplegia IS one of the most devastating conditions a person can experience. The majority of these individuals that suffer from a spinal cord injury are young males. The inability to ambulate is generally a major concern for these patients, but there are also degenerative and deconditioning effects of the spinal cord injury which may lead to devastating secondary complications that must be addressed.

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been the subject of much research concerning the rehabilitation for patients with spinal cord injury. Functional electrical stimulation is a way to activate …

Shoulder Pain And Subsequent Loss Of Function In Hemiplegic Patients, Kari A. Goetz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Hemiplegia, caused by a stroke, is one of the most common disorders in which physical therapists are extensively involved in the rehabilitation process. When a stroke occurs, there is damage to the higher centers of the central nervous system resulting in neurologic, unilateral impairment or hemiplegia. The upper extremity is frequently involved and many patients complain of pain, particularly in the shoulder. Etiology and treatment of hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) is a challenging symptom that interferes with progressive rehabilitation and the overall quality of life of many patients.

The purpose of this study was to discuss HSP and the subsequent …

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Physical Therapy Implications And Treatment Strategies, Mary L. Emerson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) describes physical and neurological (motor, cognitive, and behavioral) deficits that result from maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy. FAS is the leading cause of mental retardation and birth defects in the U.S., ahead of spina bifida, fragile X syndrome, and down's syndrome. The incidence of FAS increased more than three-fold from 1979 to 1992; this increasing incidence rate, enhances the importance of the Physical Therapists' role in early recognition and intervention of FAS. A review of current F AS research studies, reveals a need for additional resource information on FAS, regarding implications for Physical Therapy and possible …

The Adverse Effects Of Long-Term Corticosteroid Use, Jennifer Ann. Johnston

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Corticosteroids are an often prescribed anti-inflammatory medication. They are used to treat disease processes of every system of the body. Those disease processes or procedures for which corticosteroids are often prescribed are cancer, bone marrow transplants, collagenous diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus), rheumatoid arthritis, leukemia, and anemia.

However, despite the therapeutic benefits of corticosteroids, many adverse effects are possible. Gastrointestinal difficulties, steroid myopathy, hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, impaired cellular immunity, decreased neuropsychological functioning, and avascular necrosis are just a few of the possible adverse effects.

Patients receiving corticosteroids will often be seen by physical therapists for either their primary or secondary diagnoses. Physical …

The Lateral Scapular Slide Test: Is It Valid In Detecting Glenohumeral Impingement Syndrome?, Denise G. Litchfield

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Recent literature has focused on instability of the scapulothoracic joint and on resulting scapular positions. Weakness of the scapular musculature can allow the scapula to slide laterally, leading to abnormal glenohumeral biomechanics and to subsequent shoulder pathology. Kibler1 has described the lateral scapular slide test (LSST) as a method of measuring lateral translation of the scapula. A significant difference between right and left scapular positions, as indicated by a discrepancy of greater than one centimeter side-to-side, may indicate functional scapulothoracic instability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate validity of the LSST, measured in two positions. Modified LSST measurements …

The Use Of Ergogenic Aids In Athletes, Sheri L. Mounteer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Ergogenic aids are substances purported to enhance athletic performance or improve exercise capacity. The use of ergogenic aids in sports is very widespread. It is common for a physical therapist working in a sports clinic to have patients that are either considering using or using ergogenic aids. Use of these aids by patients being treated might affect the patients' response to treatment. Therapists should be able to recognize the signs of ergogenic aid abuse in individuals under their care, and they should be aware of the side effects of these aids. It is also important for therapists to be able …

Musicians And Performance Related Injuries To The Hand, Leona Pang

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Musicians spend a great amount of energy and time preparing for auditions, competitions, performances, and recitals. The process of developing techniques and learning musical pieces requires practice sessions filled with long hours of repeating musical passages and awkward upper extremity positions. Performance related injuries often result from these conditions. Injuries include joint disorders, musculotendinous disorders, muscle cramps and pain disorders, neurological disorders, and focal dystonia or occupational palsy disorders. Pain, numbness, tingling, muscle cramping, and motor dysfunctions are associated symptoms. If symptoms are ignored and intense performance is continued, the musician can experience tissue damage and permanent loss of function. …

Rehabilitation Treatment Following Total Shoulder Arthroplasty, Debbie Aarhus

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The shoulder is a very complex joint in the human body and, therefore, is easily injured and/or damaged. When conservative methods (pain reducing modalities, exercise, or medication) to treat the injury fail, an alternative method of treatment could be a total shoulder arthroplasty. Corrective surgery alone, however, is not enough. A rehabilitation program involving range of motion and strengthening exercises is fundamental in the successful return of function at the shoulder.

The purpose of this literature review is to provide an overview of shoulder anatomy, surgical procedures of total shoulder arthroplasty, rehabilitation protocols, and outcomes. The information gained from this …

A Review Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome, Jodee Backhaus

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Shoulder impingement syndrome (IS) is one of the most common shoulder problems seen today in the orthopaedic clinical setting. Patients exhibit symptoms of pain and discomfort due to pathomechanics of increasing pressure under the acromion. Factors related to IS include degeneration of the rotator cuff, vascular insufficiency of the supraspinatus, glenohumeral instability, muscle imbalances, bursitis, and bony impingement.

Impingement syndrome is most often classified as an overuse syndrome, although it can occur from a traumatic episode such as a blow to the shoulder or a fall. The population most affected are those in occupations that require a high number of …

A Review Of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Jill C. Ballan

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is the most common pediatric rheumatoid disease in North America. and a principle cause of childhood disability. The disease course is unremitting in up to a quarter of the children with JRA, and a small percentage will grow-up with severe functional disabilities.. Physical and occupational therapy, along with prescribed drug and orthopedic provisions, are important in the management of JRA. The therapists, and other medical professionals involved, work toward the following goals: decreasing joint inflammation, relieving pain, achieving or maintaining an optimal level of function, and educating the patient and family on the disease course and …