Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Myoelectric Transradial Prosthesis Motor Control With Temporal Convolutional Neural Network Signal Processing, Carolyn Ascha Richardson, Katherine Clark, Francis Genco, Hope Lea, Tobiah Rosser

Discovery Day - Daytona Beach

Transradial (below-the-elbow) amputees account for more than half of all upper limb amputations. Myoelectric prosthetic arms, which use electromyography (EMG) sensors on the surface of the forearm to convert electrical signals from residual limb muscles and mimic hand movement, are popular options for these amputees. However, these prostheses are limited in residual muscle detection and movement accuracy. The objective of this project is to affordably manufacture an externally-powered transradial prosthesis prototype through EMG time-versus-voltage readings collected with six Delsys Trigno Avanti and eight Thalmic MYO EMG sensor channels placed along the extensor digitorum, extensor carpi radialis, extensor carpi ulnaris, flexor …

A Phenomenological Study Of Parent Experiences During Transition From Early Intervention To School-Based Services, Kelly F. Gregoire, Halie Mayfield, Jeryl D. Benson, Johnna Estep

Graduate Student Research Symposium

Abstract

Importance: Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners and members of the Early Intervention (EI) to school-based transition should understand the barriers to a successful transition to better advocate for their clients and tailor their involvement in the transition process.

Objective: To explore the lived experience of parents of young children participating in the transition process.

Participants: Fourteen parents of young children (ages 2.5-6 years) with a developmental disability.

Outcomes and Measures: Semi-structured interviews focusing on parent and family experiences with the transition process.

Results: Seven resulting themes emerged from the data representing parent perceptions related to their experience of the system. …

The Readiness Reset: Sleep, Stress, And Pain Management For Tactical Performance, Lauren Fried

Tactical & Occupational Performance Conference

Tactical professionals operate in high-demand environments where sleep disruption, chronic stress, and persistent pain are often normalized, but these factors significantly affect readiness, resilience, and long-term performance. This session explores how sleep, stress, and pain interact at the physiological and neurological levels to influence decision-making, recovery, injury risk, and operational effectiveness in first responders and military personnel.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how nervous system regulation, circadian rhythms, and pain perception affect both physical and cognitive performance under stress. Drawing on current research and applied human performance principles, this session highlights practical, field-applicable strategies that tactical professionals and …

Mobility And Flexibility For The Tactical Athlete, Nancy Henderson, Haley Worst, Michelle Geter, Mikal Mascarello, Josie Stirling

Tactical & Occupational Performance Conference

Mobility and Flexibility for the Tactical Athlete

Understanding The Impact Of Therapeutic Recreation On Patient Outcomes, Faith Atkins, Emma Jones

2026 Student Academic Showcase

This exploratory project examines the role of Therapeutic Recreation (TR) in improving overall well-being and quality of life for individuals across diverse populations. The purpose of this project is to analyze how leisure-based interventions can be adapted to meet the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs of patients in various settings. By synthesizing current research and professional practices, this project highlights how TR contributes to rehabilitation, identity rebuilding, and long-term wellness. The project focuses on how recreational therapists use individualized, evidence-based approaches to help patients re-engage in meaningful activities following injury, illness, or disability. It also explores the impact of …

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage In A 46-Year-Old Male Firefighter With Full Return To Duty: Level 4 Rare Events Clinical Case Report., Elizabeth A. Mohnkern, Thomas Bowman, John R. Wise, Wendy Wilcoxson

Student Scholar Showcase

A 46-year-old physically active male firefighter suffered a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in February 2023. He had no pertinent predisposing past medical history; occupation was the only predisposing factor. The patient described having a splitting headache behind the right eye, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, paralysis of his left side, faded vision, and a lapse of memory during the incident. During his first screening, he had difficulty with concentration, immediate memory, delayed recall, reading aloud, following directions, and balance. Cranial nerve assessments were within normal limits. The upper quarter screen revealed deficits in motor function from C4 through T1 nerve roots, …

Investigating Best Practices In Diagnostic Reasoning And Differential Diagnosis: Implications For Occupational Therapy, Frank Czuba Drot, Otr/L, Laila Atra-Yassin Ots, Cassidy Green Ots, Shaylynn Krause Ots, Stephanie Petersen Ots, Alisa Robinson

Research Days

Diagnostic Reasoning and Differential Diagnosis (DD) are increasingly vital in occupational therapy (OT) practice as direct access legislation expands evaluative responsibilities for occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs). Despite this need, little research has explored how OTPs understand and apply diagnostic reasoning in clinical contexts. This study examined processes, strategies, and perceived barriers and facilitators influencing OTPs’ engagement in diagnostic reasoning and DD across diverse settings. A national online survey of licensed OTPs collected quantitative and qualitative data on knowledge, confidence, training, interprofessional collaboration, and clinical behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, weighted analyses, z-scores, and thematic analysis. Results …

Expert Insights: Identifying Knowledge Gaps In Driver Rehabilitation And Community Mobility Beyond Acote Standards, Luther King, Madysen Gaus, Arthur Katzmann, Lia Shomaly, Keniya Smith, Tina Tindall

Research Days

Driver rehabilitation is an underrepresented specialization within occupational therapy despite its critical role in supporting individuals with physical, cognitive, or visual impairments to drive safely and maintain community mobility. The literature reveals limited inclusion of driver rehabilitation in OT curricula, minimal fieldwork exposure, and scarce driver rehabilitation programs, resulting in fewer certified specialists. Barriers to program development include insufficient funding, lack of institutional support, and limited equipment access. Consequently, new graduates lack knowledge, confidence, and competence in this specialty area, reducing service availability for clients who rely on driving for independence and participation. Addressing these gaps through enhanced education, fieldwork …

Decreasing Wound Healing Times By Decreasing Stress Levels, Bayleigh S. Kraus, Colson Burnett, Kelsey Spann

Scholars Week

The relationship between stress levels and delayed wound healing needs to be further investigated, particularly in hospitalized and chronically ill patients. Research shows that psychological stress can impair immune function, reduce tissue regeneration, and prolong inflammation, all of which slow the healing process. It is important to explore how both acute and chronic stress affect different types of wounds, such as surgical incisions, pressure injuries, and diabetic ulcers. Additionally, identifying which stress-reduction interventions are most effective in improving healing outcomes is essential. Understanding these factors can help nurses implement targeted, evidence-based interventions to promote faster recovery.

A Scarring Experience: Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation As A Palliative Approach In Colorectal Cancer Survivorship, Aryan Dowlatshahi, Mary Garcia, Leanne Jackson

Cancer Survivorship Research Retreat

This is a case study and discussion of pelvic floor rehabilitation in its palliative utility specifically for colorectal cancer survivorship which will be presented at the MD Anderson Survivorship Research Retreat conference.

A Scarring Experience: Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation As A Novel Palliative Approach In Colorectal Cancer Survivorship, Aryan Dowlatshahi, Leanne Jackson, Mary Garcia

Cancer Survivorship Research Retreat

This is a discussion of the novel approach of pelvic floor rehabilitation in its utility specifically for colorectal cancer survivorship which will be additionally presented at the MD Anderson Survivorship Research Retreat conference.

The Impact Of Physical Activity And Diet On The Potassium-Chloride Cotransporter 2 In The Central Nervous System: A Literature Review, Benjamin M. Latey, Dustin Bowers, Andrew J. Payne

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Case Report In Post-Tibial Orif Patient, Olufemi Akinleye Akintunde, Leah Guzzardo, Kerstin Palombaro

Capstone Showcase

Background and Purpose

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain, which can be idiopathic or insidious. Despite this, another cause of patellofemoral pain is a secondary complication from tibial fractures and surgeries. Post-Tibial Open Reduction Internal Fixation: patients undergo a period of knee immobilization, altered weight-bearing status, and quadriceps dysfunction.  This causes quadriceps atrophy, altering the knee's biomechanics. The purpose of this case report is to illustrate the rehabilitation strategy and prognosis of this set of patients.

Case Description

A 44-year-old woman who had a right tibial ORIF developed anterior knee pain one-month …

Effectiveness Of A Task-Oriented Exercise Program In Managing Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Case Report, Daphne N. Olipas

Capstone Showcase

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Scoliosis is a musculoskeletal condition that commonly affects adolescents characterized by an abnormal multiplanar curvature of the spine. This condition may result in postural imbalance, trunk asymmetry, and limitations in functional activities. Exercise-based interventions are designed to enhance spinal stability, promote postural awareness, improve respiratory function, and support participation in daily activities. This case report aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured therapeutic exercise program for a person diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. The intervention program includes core stabilization exercises, postural re-education, breathing exercises, and functional training.

Case Description: A 14 year-old female was referred to …

Effect On C5 Myotome Distribution After Cervical Spinal Surgery: A Case Report On Early Neuromuscular Re-Education, Nicole Eder Asebias

Capstone Showcase

Background and Purpose: Postoperative C5 palsy is a known problem after cervical spinal surgery and is characterized by upper extremity weakness that can significantly limit the ability to perform daily tasks. Despite its clinical relevance, limited literature describes physical rehabilitation-focused interventions strategies for this condition. The purpose of this case report is to describe the presentation, physical therapy intervention, and outcomes of a patient with postoperative C5 palsy managed with neuromuscular re-education.

Case Description: The patient is an adult who developed left upper extremity weakness consistent with C5 palsy following cervical spinal surgery. Primary impairments included decreased shoulder abductor and …

Hyperbaric Chambers For College Athletes, Alex Pinkston

Student Scholar Symposium

The use of hyperbaric chambers is gaining attention as a beneficial treatment for college athletes, offering a healthier alternative to more common, yet riskier, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and modern pharmaceuticals. While professional athletes often have the financial resources to afford hyperbaric therapy, college athletes face similar intensive training regimens but frequently turn to harmful substances to enhance recovery and performance due to limited access to alternative treatments. This research explores the potential of hyperbaric chambers to support the physical and mental well-being of college athletes, highlighting their role in reducing recovery time, enhancing tissue repair, and improving overall performance. Furthermore, …

Stretching The Limit: A Comparative Study On The Various Stretching Modes And Their Effects On Hip Mobility, James Wheeler, Michelle Wolford, Ashlyn Pollock, Kaitlyn Elllis

Student Scholar Symposium

No abstract provided.

Exploring Outcomes For Patients With Spinal Cord Injuries Participating In A Day Treatment Program, Christina Kane, Alexa Chappell, Kristen Frack, Sarah Salluom, Brittany Meurs

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Purpose: This study explored program outcomes of the Brooks Spinal Cord Injury & Related Disorders Day Treatment Program in Jacksonville, Florida. By examining secondary data, using both the Self-Reported Functional Measure (SRFM) and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure–III (SCIM-III), researchers determined the change between admission and discharge scores in both patient- and therapist-reported outcomes of self-care skills. This study also studied if a correlation existed between the SRFM (patient-reported) and SCIM-III (therapist-reported) outcomes.

Participants: Data from 49 participant records were collected in 2022-2023, with 42 participants data qualifying for this study.

Methods: Using secondary de-identified data, statistical analyses were conducted …

Occupational Participation Among Children With Neurodivergent And Related Conditions: A Mixed Methods Study, Shirish Lala, Darian Amacker, Anne Martens, Alexa Rodefeld, Danielle Toth, Elyssa Wider

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Background: This study explored occupational engagement of children with neurodivergent and related conditions in home, school, and community settings. Children aged 6 to 16 years and their caregivers were recruited to investigate how occupational engagement differs across contexts.

Methods: A mixed-methods approach assessed quantitative data from 51 participants using a modified version of the Child and Adolescent Scale of Participation. Qualitative data were collected from 6 semi-structured interviews. The Model of Human Occupation and its components of volition, habituation, and performance capacity, including environmental factors, informed the research process and methodology. Engagement among children with neurodivergent diagnoses is shaped by …

Sexuality And Sexual Activity Of Adults 21 To 35 Years With High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mariana D'Amico, Aisha N. Maldonado, Gina Fuentes, Andrea Meston

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Purpose

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report having less sexual experience and engaging in fewer social-sexual behaviors when compared to those without ASD. The purpose of this study is to discover how the quality of sexual education has impacted individuals with high-functioning ASD (HFASD) engagement in sexual activity.

Methods

This qualitative phenomenological study used semi-structured interview questions based on the purpose of the study and identified research questions. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants.

Results

Findings indicated that female adults with HFASD received inconsistent and incomplete sexual education impacting their sexual experiences, safety, and quality of life. All …

Initial Validation Of The Scale Of Occupational Disruption, Ricardo Carrasco, Abigail S. Aquino, Genesis Avalos-Medina, Desiree Thomas, Samira Osman

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Background

Occupations are meaningful activities that humans perform in daily
life. Individuals may experience a disruption in their occupations because of a life-
altering event. Currently, there are no instruments that measure the severity of
occupational disruption. Retrospective and current data were collected to
standardize and establish the reliability of the Scale of Occupational Disruption.

Methods

Social media flyer responses and retrospective data provided data for
232 participants who completed the scale through REDCap. Only 189 participants
qualified for inclusion due to incomplete responses.

Results

A Cronbach’s alpha revealed acceptable internal consistency reliability (a=0.87), meaning that items
measure the same …

Impact Of Interprofessional Collaboration On Nurses And Occupational Therapists In The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Beverly Murphy, Marissa Casamento, Abigail Fleming, Anna Gomolski, Camryn Labrador

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Purpose

This study explores the impact of interprofessional collaboration (IPC) between nurses and occupational therapists (OTs) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It investigates the process of collaboration and stakeholder perceptions of interprofessional teamwork. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of IPC in the NICU setting, specifically between nurses and OTs, and to identify barriers that might hinder optimal collaboration.

Methods

A single survey instrument was distributed via social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn) and completed by 47 participants (21 Nurses, 26 Occupational therapists). The survey, created using REDCap, included scaled items …

Perspectives Of Occupational Therapy-Led Caregiver Education On The Quality Of Life Of Caregivers Of Stroke Survivors, Yu Hsiang Liang-Paultre, Stefani Costanzo, Alaunte Major, Krisyadlee Mercado Lugo, Olivia Schrader

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Purpose

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in equipping caregivers with the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals recovering from a cerebrovascular accident. Caregiver training provided by occupational therapy practitioners helps families manage post-stroke care and reduce the risk of secondary complications. This study explored caregivers’ perspectives on occupational therapy-led education, focusing on the type, quality, and perceived effectiveness of training before discharge.

Methods

Originally designed as a mixed-methods study, the research was modified to a qualitative design after hurricanes affected recruitment. Using a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with caregivers of individuals who had a cerebrovascular accident …

Stress Management And Working Mothers, Mariana D'Amico, Ashley Ndip

Occupational Therapy Annual Research Colloquium

Abstract

Purpose: Explore evidence-based interventions to manage stress for working mothers.

Method: A scoping review was undertaken to explore and synthesize the evidence supporting occupational therapy interventions for working mothers. Select keywords were used individually and combined in EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Scopus, CINHAL, Cochrane Library Systematic Reviews, PsycINFO, PubMed, PEDro.

Results: After reviewing the 14 identified articles, eight were removed for not meeting criteria, leaving six for synthesis. Four articles were at Level IV evidence, and two articles were qualitative. Social support extended family and mindfulness training were found to be helpful as reported by working mothers.

Conclusion: There …

Assessing The Use Of Marker-Less Motion Capture Systems For Neurological Disorders In Indoor Vs Outdoor Settings., Anjana Ganesh, Kelsey Baker

Research Colloquium

Background: Marker-less motion capture systems have improved the assessment of human movement by allowing for a non-invasive, affordable, quantitative data collection useful in clinical settings. However, their use in real-world community care settings is largely underexplored, presenting a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between controlled laboratory environments and the complexity of providing care in diverse, everyday contexts. This systematic review examines the differential use of MMC systems across real-world indoor environments (clinics, homes, living labs) and outdoor settings (public walkways, community spaces), with a focus on their application to neurological disorders such as stroke and neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods: …

Evaluating The Reliability And Accuracy Of Three Sensor Prototypes For Enhancing Stair Mobility, Chloe R. Schmidt

2025 Symposium

Peripheral neuropathy causes sensory deficits, impaired motor control, and instability. One challenge for individuals with neuropathy is stair navigation due to reduced sensory feedback and altered mechanics, increasing fall risk. Few commercial products mitigate sensory issues, creating a need for an affordable and easy to use product for individuals with neuropathy safely navigate stairs. PURPOSE: To evaluate the reliability and accuracy of three sensor prototypes designed to provide assistive feedback through tactile and visual cues during stair navigation. METHODS: 15 healthy adults (22.33 ± 2.87 y) completed the study, consisting of stair ascent and descent with the prototypes placed in …

Visiting Medical Student Stipends In The Us | An Analysis Of Equity Within Physiatry, Ashley Otto, Do, Mbs, Jeffrey Gray, Md, Summer Nestorowicz, Md, Adrian Oppong, Md, Ms, Oluseye Raymond, Md, Andrew Walrond, Md, Alexis Tingan, Md, Marisa Moreta, Do

Health Equity and Quality Improvement (HEQI) Summit

Introduction & Aims

Health inequities are ubiquitous throughout medicine especially pertaining to accessibility, affordability, and availability. These challenges disproportionately affect minorities- both patients and providers alike [3,4]. Patient outcomes have been shown to improve when treated by physicians of similar backgrounds [3,4,7]. The journey to improve outcomes begins with pre-residency rotations; medical students who can complete audition rotations have an increased opportunity to matriculate into said residency program. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R), like many specialties, is disproportionately represented by men and Caucasians [1,5, 8] with the greatest drop in URM representation occurring between applicants and residents [Escalon]. This project …

Comparative Long-Term Outcomes Of Cell Therapy And Cardiac Rehabilitation In The Treatment Of Non-Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy, Awrush Sean Namazi, Susrut Dube, Jay Kishor Patel

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

This systematic review explores long-term treatment approaches for non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy, comparing cell therapy and cardiac rehabilitation. Cardiomyopathy is characterized by the progressive thinning and deterioration of cardiac muscle and is a significant cause of heart failure. Various treatment modalities have been developed to combat cardiomyopathy and prevent the onset of heart failure, with more recent efforts focusing on cell therapy—particularly allogeneic and autologous stem cell transplants. The efficacy of these novel treatments was compared to more established regimens, particularly cardiac rehabilitation. Studies demonstrate that both treatment modalities are associated with a significant overall improvement in ejection fraction (effect size …

The Role Of Ect In Ocd: A 10-Year Review (2014-2024), Mariana Sales, Tainiz Polanco, Amy Nguyen

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects up to 2.5% of the population with significant impacts on everyday functioning and relationships. First-line treatment includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) and cognitive behavioral therapy; however, studies have found that up to 40-60% of patients do not respond to SSRIs. ECT is an alternative approach that has demonstrated limited efficacy in OCD.

Objective: The current review aims to summarize the results of published work between 2014-2024 to assess the efficacy of ECT in the treatment of OCD.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using eight studies from 2014-2024 to assess the effectiveness of ECT …

Effect Of A Mindfulness State Induced By Marconi Union’S Weightless On Perceived Loneliness: A Pilot Study, Ayman Khatib, Richard Jermyn, Judith Lightfoot

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Loneliness is associated with increases in risk for cardiovascular disease, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, there is an urgent need for treatments that can help reduce loneliness. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness techniques may help reduce the experience of loneliness. Digital sound therapy that incorporates biofeedback can help individuals enter a mindfulness state with minimal effort by simply listening to sound. One song titled Weightless by Marconi Union has been called the most relaxing song in the world with the capacity to reduce anxiety by 65% and equivalent to midazolam6. We hypothesize that watching the “Weightless” …