Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Multiple Interest Holder Perspectives Of The True Grit Sci Residential Program: A Mixed Methods Program Evaluation, Keara Mcnair

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

Young adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) face significant challenges during the transition to adulthood, including barriers to independence, community participation, and psychosocial adjustment (Ingimarsdóttir et al., 2023; Zebracki et al., 2010). Current rehabilitation models in the United States prioritize short-term physical recovery and offer limited support for the developmental and contextual needs that shape long-term outcomes after SCI, particularly during transitions from inpatient rehabilitation to the community (Anderson et al., 2024; Bryden & Gran, 2024). Community-based programs may help address these gaps, though few have been rigorously evaluated using implementation science frameworks that attend to health equity, contextual influences, …

Mid- To Long-Term Recovery After Non-Traumatic Lower Limb Amputation: A Scoping Review Of Longitudinal Research Studies, Chloe Akiona-Bannan, Jocelyn Contreras, Kayla Cheyenne Bonsol Francisco, Kentaro Lee

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Objective

Longitudinal research studies are essential for understanding the time course of functional recovery after lower limb amputation (LLA). The purpose of this scoping review was to evaluate the existing evidence base regarding mid- to long-term outcomes following non-traumatic LLA.

Data Sources

A scoping review was conducted per Joanna Briggs Institute and Open Sciences Framework guidelines. Based on purpose, seven databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SportDiscus, and Google Scholar) were searched for studies published between 2000–2024, in English, Mandarin Chinese, Tagalog, Persian, or Spanish.

Study Selection

Eligible studies must include at least 50% of participants with non-traumatic …

Golden Steps: A Dance-Based Program To Improve Balance In Older Adults — A Feasibility And Acceptability Study, Ramyr Bognot, Sophia Botelho, Nolan Caberto, Lauren Valerio, Joshua Yu, Jason Zeidman

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background

Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults. Evidence-based programs such as Otago and Tai Ji Quan reduce fall risk, yet barriers to access and adherence remain. Dance-based interventions may offer a practical, enjoyable approach to engage older adults in balance training.

Purpose

This formative pilot study aimed to develop four dance routines grounded in evidence- based balance principles and evaluate their feasibility and acceptability among older adults, including factors influencing enjoyment and willingness to continue participation, to inform future clinical and community implementation.

Methods

Four routines (Polka, Country, Rockabilly, Salsa) were developed …

Unlv Pt Admissions: The Relationship Between Mismatched Gender Or Race Of Applicants Compared To Interviewer On In-Person And Asynchronous Interview Scores, Sarah Dudley, Calvin Kwok

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose/Hypothesis:

Despite a growing push for diversity in healthcare, the impact of interviewer-applicant demographic alignment on scoring remains under-researched within the specific context of physical therapy admissions, particularly across different interview platforms. A sex or race concordance bias has the potential to compromise a program’s reliability of applicant evaluations and conflicts with the ethical standards of equity and nondiscrimination that guide healthcare education and practice. In this study we aimed to determine the relationship between sex and race concordance of interviewers and applicants for both in-person and asynchronous virtual interview scores at the University of Las Vegas Physical Therapy (UNLV …

Effects Of A 12-Week Physical Therapy-Based Exercise Intervention On Gait In Adults With Down Syndrome, Samantha Betts, Stephen Kiraly, Paige Lucero, James Malabanan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: Individuals with Down Syndrome (Ds) frequently have sedentary lifestyles and Ds-specific physical impairments such as ligamentous laxity and hypotonia. These impairments often contribute to gait deviations that reduce the efficiency of ambulation. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 12-week exercise program on spatiotemporal characteristics of gait and kinematic variables at the hip, knee, and ankle in adults with Down syndrome (Ds). Methods: A randomized control trial of 40 participants was conducted with two groups: one group of adults with Ds who participated in a 12-week exercise program, and a control group who …

The Impact Of Youth Sport On Occupational Balance: A Survey Study, Sean Jones

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Youth sport has been highly researched, exploring both positive and negative health impacts (Adetunji & Akendutire, 2017; Brengtsson et al., 2025; Conway, 2024; Hoffman et al., 2022). Despite the high prevalence of youth sport participation, and variability of health-related outcomes, there has been no research regarding the impact youth sport participation has on occupational balance, an occupational therapy concept that has been linked with overall health and well-being (Park et al., 2021). A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey study was used to gain better insights into the impact youth sport participation may have on occupational balance. A sample size of 466 Nevada …

Efficacy Of Dorsal Application Kinesio® Tex Tape On Esports Performance, Charlie Moua

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This mixed-methods pilot study examined dorsal Kinesio® Tex Tape as a nonrestrictive occupational therapy intervention for adult PC gamers with carpal tunnel–type symptoms. As gaming participation increases, players may experience repetitive wrist and hand movements, prolonged postures, and high performance demands that contribute to discomfort, overuse symptoms, and reduced participation in meaningful gaming occupations. Four adult PC gamers completed five in-person sessions and were assigned to either dorsal wrist taping or sham scapular taping. Quantitative outcomes included the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire– Symptom Severity Scale, visual analog pain ratings, and Kovaak’s Aim Trainer performance scores and accuracy. Qualitative data were …

Exploring Lifestyle Habits Between Gamers And Non-Gamers: A Survey-Based Approach, Janavi Sathappan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Video gaming is a prevalent and meaningful occupation for a growing number of young adults, yet its relationship to health behaviors is inconsistent and unclear in literature. This cross-sectional survey-based study examined the differences in nutritional pattens, sleep hygiene, and physical activity between self-identified gamers and non-gamers in a sample of young adults aged 18-34. Recruitment occurred primarily through the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and associated networks. Participants were asked to complete the Mini Eating Assessment Tool, Sleep Hygiene Index, and the International Physical Activity- Short Form. Data was analyzed using Mann-Whitney U tests and Pearson’s chi-square tests, and …

Exploring The Biological Basis For Exercise Neuroprotection In Parkinson’S Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study Of Exercise And Physical Activity On Inflammatory Cytokines And Neurotrophins, Leah Isabelle P. Alegre, Jacob M. Brewer, Adeline Florschutz, Kate E. Hamiltonthompson

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Regular exercise and physical therapy are known to increase production of neurotrophins, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and anti-inflammatory cytokines. These changes combine to theoretically protect and slow the progressive loss of neurons in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of exercise and physical activity on various anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines and neurotrophins in people with PD (PwP). This was a cross-sectional design involving PwP (n=37), aged 43-85 years, who participated in two 30-minute bouts of exercise (with brief rest breaks during and pre/post blood draws) separated by a week. Measures collected prior …

Anatomy Academy: An Interdisciplinary Approach To Enhancing Youth Health Literacy, Roselle Antikoll, Jonathan Nakamine, Jessica Tran

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

To enhance health literacy among the underserved youth population in Las Vegas, Nevada, Anatomy Academy (AA) is an eight-week, seven-lesson program that educates students through structured and interactive lesson plans covering basic anatomy, physiology, and nutrition. Our program was implemented in three different Title-I elementary schools between five different classrooms across Las Vegas. These lesson plans highlighted specific body systems including the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal systems. Our primary aim was centered around involvement of more interdisciplinary healthcare professions including occupational therapy, dental medicine, osteopathic medicine, and nutrition to aid in the delivery of the AA program. Our secondary aim …

Postural And Load Dependent Modulation Of Lower Limb H-Reflex Excitability After Stroke, Daniel Bamiro, Matthew Berdiago, Ethan Hunter, Tia Nguyen

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose/Hypothesis

Leg stiffness is regulated by reflexive, intrinsic, and passive mechanisms, which are influenced by posture, body weight loading, and motor task demands. After a stroke, the capacity to modulate these mechanisms is often compromised. The H-reflex is a widely used electrophysiological tool to assess the excitability of the Ia afferent pathway within spinal circuitry. Although prior studies in healthy individuals have examined limb loading effects, results have been variable, and the role of postural and loading changes during standing remains underexplored, particularly in individuals post-stroke. This study investigated how different postural and limb loading conditions, specifically prone, standing, and …

Effect Of An Exercise Protocol On Balance In Adults With Down Syndrome, Juan Bernal, Natalie Sato

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose/Hypothesis: Down syndrome (Ds) is a complex genetic condition that can impact multiple systems of the body, including functional balance. Ds-specific impairments such as muscle hypotonia, ligamentous laxity, and decreased muscle strength, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle can result in poor motor control, altered proprioceptive function, static and dynamic instability. Visual and vestibular impairments are also common in this population, increasing fall risk and fear of falling, and discouraging participation in physical activity. The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of a physical therapy-based exercise program on the functional balance of adults with Ds.

Number of Subjects: …

Feasibility Of A Functional Reach Tool For Individuals With Lower Extremity Amputations, Neil Bongolan, Dustin Hoy, Ashlyn Strange

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose: Patients with lower extremity amputations are at increased risk of falls due to decreased balance ability between amputated and sound side. The purpose of this study was to examine the usefulness of a reaching tool for practitioners to assess balance in an inpatient rehab facility. It was anticipated that clinicians will find the reaching device useful when administering the Functional Reach Test (FRT) in a clinical setting, given the frequent use of these assessments and the device’s demonstrated reliability.

Participants: Physical Therapists and patients at an Inpatient Rehab Facility in Henderson, Nevada

Materials/Methods: A prototype reaching tool was provided …

Uneven Terrain Treadmill Training For Lower Limb Prosthesis Users: A Feasibility Study, Brian Diep, Keegan Feroah, Ani Gasparyan, Nevena Jovanovic

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Individuals with lower limb amputation (LLA) face an increased risk for falls which may limit mobility, confidence, and participation in daily activities. Current rehabilitation programs for this population rarely integrate surface training as an intervention, despite walking on different surfaces being a necessity to participate in the real world. This feasibility study aimed to evaluate the practicality, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an uneven treadmill training protocol for individuals with LLA. Five adults with LLA (P1: transfemoral, 38 years old, 1.75 m, 88.8 kg; P2: hip disarticulation, 38 years old, 1.60 m, 106.7 kg; P3: transfemoral, 53 years old, 1.81 …

Effectiveness Of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy On The Quality Of Life Of Adults With Dementia: A Secondary Analysis, Evelyn Airam

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This secondary analysis study evaluated the effectiveness of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) on quality of life (QoL), depressive symptoms, and cognitive function in 108 community-dwelling older adults with cognitive impairments, including dementia. Outcomes involved Quality of Life (QoL) measured by the Quality of Life in Alzheimer’s Disease (QoL-AD), symptoms of depression by the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD), and cognitive function using the Saint Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS). After the CST, significant improvements were observed in QoL (p = .004), depressive symptoms (p = .002), and cognitive function (p < .001), with small effect sizes. Additionally, a significant interaction between sex and dementia diagnosis status was found in predicting cognitive changes, suggesting that the relationship between dementia diagnosis and cognitive improvement differs by sex. No between-group differences were found for QoL or depression. Findings support CST as a multidimensional, non-pharmacological intervention that improves cognitive, psychological, and social outcomes. Although effects were small, consistent improvements are clinically meaningful given the progressive nature of dementia. This study extends existing literature by demonstrating CST’s effectiveness in a community-based setting and reinforces its alignment with occupational therapy’s emphasis on participation and holistic care. Results highlight the need for early intervention and expanded access to CST programs to enhance quality of life in this population.

Integrating Social-Emotional Learning To Foster Regulation And A Positive Classroom Climate, Klarika Meghan V. Alquisada

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Social-emotional learning (SEL) supports the development of emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and meaningful participation in academic environments. Increasing regulatory demands within classrooms highlight the need for structured approaches that support both educators and students in maintaining engagement and fostering positive learning environments. Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners are uniquely positioned to collaborate with educators to integrate regulation-focused strategies within daily classroom routines.This quality improvement project aimed to develop and implement an OT-informed SEL program for educators serving students with diverse learning needs. Teachers received consultation and tailored SEL strategies, implemented them for 5 weeks, and provided feedback on their effects on …

Fostering Adolescents’ Social-Emotional Skills In A Community Setting, Elizabeth Benitez

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Adolescents face growing emotional, behavioral, and social challenges, especially in community recreation settings with high energy, peer interaction, and sensory demands. These environments often expose difficulties in emotional regulation, communication, and conflict management, highlighting the need for structured social-emotional learning (SEL). This capstone project aimed to develop and implement an occupation-centered SEL program integrating the Zones of Regulation (ZOR), CASEL competencies, and Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR) Floortime principles within the Clark County Hollywood Parks and Recreation after-school program. Guided by the Person–Environment–Occupation (PEO) model, the project sought to help adolescents practice emotional awareness, self-management, and interpersonal skills in their …

Got Sleep?: The Introduction Of Sleep Hygiene To Justice Involved Individuals, Charisma Lynn Cato

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Individuals transitioning out of incarceration often experience challenges with sleep due to the residual effects of confinement. Although this is common among justice-involved individuals, there is limited research on how to address their sleep hygiene self-efficacy after release. Furthermore, despite the wide use of social-emotional learning (SEL) across multiple disciplines, little is known about its influence on sleep-related behavior change in re-entry populations. To address this, the Got Sleep program, designed and implemented at Hope for Prisoners (HOPE), a community site geared toward re-entry assistance, integrated occupational therapy (OT) principles and an SEL approach with practical sleep hygiene strategies to …

Enhancing Accessibility And Inclusivity In The Performing Arts With Occupational Therapy Frameworks, Carmela Clarice Tabora Clave

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

In live theater performances, there are numerous sensory demands, including unpredictable noises, lighting, crowd movement, vocalization, and transitions in and out of the theater. Teachers, support staff, and chaperones who attend these performances may face barriers in supporting their children in unfamiliar environments, and community volunteers who have never assisted during these shows may not know how to support children who need it if they have not had prior exposure to children with diverse needs. This capstone project provides families, teachers, and volunteers with pre-visit resource guides with occupational therapy perspectives on sensory processing for student matinees and sensory-inclusive performances …

Enhancing Independence: A Home Environmental Safety Program For Stroke Survivors, Ka'iulani-Joy Genevieve Conlu

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: Stroke is a common cause of physical limitations, leading to decreased independence and participation in daily activities. Individuals post-stroke transitioning from inpatient to outpatient care typically do not receive in-person home safety recommendations to decrease environmental challenges and improve overall well-being. Methods: Participants were recruited conveniently during the inpatient and outpatient care process at Post Acute Medical (PAM) Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henderson. The Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool (HOME FAST) was administered to identify environmental hazards and to guide individualized home safety recommendations. Participants will complete a questionnaire before and after the program within 14 weeks to …

Inclusiveness With Sensory Maps; Enhancing Engagement In A Children's Museum, Victoria E. Davila

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Sensory processing challenges can affect a child’s ability to engage in play, especially when participating in community activities. When a child feels overwhelmed by sensory features in an environment, such as noise or bright lights in a community space, they may experience sensory overload. Caregivers often observe this behavior but may not have access to resources to help their child navigate these challenges. This capstone project aimed to implement a program development initiative at the Discovery Children’s Museum focused on developing sensory-inclusive resources for caregivers visiting the museum with a child. The role of occupational therapy in this project is …

The Lotus Project: An Occupation-Based Online Module To Support Healthy Matrescence, Virginia Genato

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Becoming a mother is a meaningful life event that occurs amid complex physical, psychological, and social changes. During this period, individuals undergo an occupational role transition as they assume new caregiver responsibilities while navigating contextual demands. The ease of this transition influences overall maternal adjustment. The dominant sociocultural model of intensive mothering promotes child-centered caregiving, often at the expense of maternal well-being and adjustment. Efforts to meet these expectations may disrupt an individual’s transition into motherhood and place them at risk for developing postpartum mental health challenges.

The concept of matrescence provides a developmental framework that views motherhood as an …

Promoting Classroom Management Through Elementary Teacher Education On Movement-Based Social-Emotional Learning, Daija Renee Georgette

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This doctoral capstone project addressed a knowledge gap among K–5 th–grade teachers at Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA) regarding the purpose, benefits, and educational value of movement-based brain breaks. Although CCA currently incorporates social–emotional learning (SEL) frameworks such as the Zones of Regulation, teachers have received limited training on how structured movement opportunities can enhance student engagement, attention, and regulation. This program aimed to strengthen teachers’ understanding and confidence by providing a series of evidence-informed workshops that explored the connections among movement, self-regulation, and classroom management.

The project consisted of orientation, teacher recruitment, needs assessment, workshop development, and program delivery over …

The Exploration Of Leisure Occupations For Older Adults, Chloe Jisoo Kang

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Introduction: This capstone project involved the development and implementation of a community-based program for the exploration of leisure occupations for older adults. The program aimed to increase the life satisfaction and occupational balance of participants. A manualized program was created for the capstone site for potential continuation of the program.

Methods: The program was developed with the support of evidence-based research and the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF-4). Two-hour events were held once a week for four weeks in a community area of the senior living community. A modified version of the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ11) and the Satisfaction with …

Feasibility Of High-Intensity Training (Hit) For Academic Engagement In Young Adult Women, Raleah Tenorio Kastner

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose: This feasibility study aimed to identify the impact of a high-intensity training (HIT) exercise protocol on healthy behaviors related to academics to decrease stress levels and enhance academic engagement and overall quality of life in young adult female students, measured by a modified version of the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) and the Occupational Experience Profile (OEP).

Methodology: One young adult female student enrolled at UNLV who is 18-25 years old was recruited via convenience sampling to engage in a 12-session HIT exercise program, developed by a certified personal trainer and licensed occupational therapist, with the participant’s target …

Postpartum Depression Protocols In A Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Benefits And Outcomes, Myrnnda Miller

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This capstone project aimed to reduce postpartum depression symptoms in mothers with infants admitted to the University Medical Center (UMC) of Southern Nevada’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) by integrating early screening with occupation-based, trauma-informed support. The intervention combined the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for early detection with occupational therapy–facilitated maternal support sessions, providing emotional validation, education, and strategies for coping and parent–infant bonding. Guided by Trauma-Informed Care and Backwards Design frameworks, the project prioritized maternal safety, empowerment, and confidence. A paired sample t-test was conducted to compare pre and posttest EPDS scores and showed that the participant’s EPDS …

Supporting Staff Social-Emotional Learning Through An After-School Program, Alexis Monique Molina

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This doctoral capstone project aimed to develop and implement an occupational therapy- informed social-emotional learning (SEL) training program for after-school staff at the Hollywood Recreation Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The project addressed a critical gap in the skills and competence of staff needed to manage emotional and behavioral challenges in community-based youth programs. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model, adult learning theory, and the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework, the fourteen-week program incorporated weekly lessons to enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, and relational competence among staff. Through interactive lessons, reflection promotion, and feedback surveys, participants engaged …

Addressing Sleep Health In The Fire Service: A Sleep Hygiene Education Program, Alyssa Elizabeth Neal

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This capstone project implemented an occupational therapy sleep hygiene program tailored to the unique occupational demands of Las Vegas Fire and Rescue (LVFR) firefighters. Guided by the Occupational Adaptation theory and the CALMS Framework, this project conceptualized sleep as a meaningful occupation essential to health, safety, and functional performance. The project’s aim was to assess the feasibility of a sleep hygiene program designed for the fire service using standardized measures, including the Sleep Hygiene Index. The methodology incorporated a structured educational session focused on educating firefighters on the importance of sleep, modifying routines and environments to support restorative sleep, implementing …

The Impact Of Language-Concordant Diagnosis Education On Discharge Readiness For Spanish-Speaking Patients, Jorge Noel Perdomo Rodriguez

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: Current language service practices fail to meet the needs of Spanish-speaking patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) resulting in decreased satisfaction with care, understanding of diagnosis education, and increased risk of post-discharge health disparities. Language-concordant care has been found to improve patient satisfaction with care and increase quality of transition from hospital to home. Research on language-concordant OT care is scarce and current studies suggest that language discordance leads to decreased quality of OT care for Spanish speakers. Problem: Language discordance leads to poor understanding of OT’s role and decreases patient-centered care for Spanish-speaking patients. Purpose: This project aimed …

Psychological Impact Of Nexus Program On Persons Living With Mild Dementia, Kaleigh Gailynn Quinlan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Objective: Dementia is a global health concern due to the rapidly growing aging population (WHO, 2023). A wealth of evidence exists to support the notion that lifestyle interventions not only slow cognitive decline but improve cognition (Ngandu et al., 2015; Rosenberg et al.., 2018; Meng et al., 2022). However, there is a distinct lack of qualitative evidence examining the experience of being in a lifestyle redesign program. Lifestyle interventions require a large overhaul of an individual’s habits and performance patterns, and as such, there must be a subjective experience attached. Methodology: Through convenience sampling of the residents participating in the …