Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Biblical Servant Leadership And Physical Therapists' Clinical Decision Making For Breast Cancer Patients After Breast Cancer Surgery: A Correlational Study, Cleve Carter Iii

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this quantitative, correlational study was to determine whether a relationship exists between physical therapists’ (PTs’) perceptions of their manager’s or director’s application of BSL and the clinical decision-making of the PT when treating patients of varying socioeconomic status (SES) and race after breast cancer surgery (e.g., mastectomy, lumpectomy) in the United States (U.S.). This study utilized case-based vignettes for a patient population seeking skilled physical therapy services after breast cancer surgery within the U.S. healthcare system context. The sample population consisted of PTs from across the U.S. who actively evaluate and treat patients following breast cancer (BC) …

An Innovative Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (Cimt) Program Design And Case Study To Address Upper Extremity Use And Spatial Inattention, Mark Blanchard, Ingrid A. Franc, Payton Nisby, Michelle Arceneaux, Kathleen Chapiesky, Genevieve Ducros, Austin Brannon

Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration

Introduction: Common consequences of stroke include decreased upper extremity function and spatial inattention, both of which cause difficulties in occupational performance in activities of daily living. Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is an intervention that has been utilized to improve these consequences of stroke.

Methods: This single case study describes the design and results of a two-week modified CIMT (mCIMT) program that used an enhanced visual and auditory feedback system, the Flint Rehab FitMi device, to address both upper extremity function and left spatial inattention in one participant. Left spatial awareness was encouraged during mCIMT activities by striking targeted pucks placed …

Unlv Department Of Physical Therapy And The Fine Arts Clinic For Health And Injury Prevention, Madeline Cosgrove, Ashton Johnson, Keith Lopez, Diana Nguyen

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

At the collegiate of performing arts, those who participate in classes and performances will often be at risk for musculoskeletal injury due to repetition and specific patterns of their movements. The establishment of a pro-bono physical therapy clinic for students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate-level fine arts programs may improve healthcare access for this often underserved community. The goals of this service learning project were to provide injury-prevention screenings to dancers and administer specialized physical therapy (PT) services in the form of evaluations and treatments to all students in the UNLV (University of Las Vegas, Nevada) College of Fine Arts …

Developing An Evidence-Based Continuing Education Program For Physical Therapists Working With Individuals With Down Syndrome, Luis Azpeitia, Chantel Montayre, Rebecca Peterson, Alyssa Pociernicki

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Despite the abundance of resources available for physical therapists (PTs) treating children with Ds, the resources are limited for PTs working with teens and adults. This suggests that this population is underserved within the healthcare community. This project aimed to bridge this knowledge gap by developing a comprehensive continuing education program for physical therapists, focused on the treatment and care of teens and adults with Ds. This education program will give physical therapists a resource for treating teens and adults with Ds, an under-resourced population. Two modules focusing on musculoskeletal (MSK)/gait and communication strategies were developed, and then pilot tested …

Fostering Intergenerational Connection Through The Implementation Of Bingocize: A Community-Based Fall-Prevention Program, Dejeigh Herrera, Shelby Humphreys, Kayla Lee, Danielle Platt

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Falling is an experience that can be traumatic and detrimental to the overall health of those aged 65 and older. As this portion of the population in the United States continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding the general health concerns of these individuals and the way they contribute to their risk of falling and impact their ability to live independently. One program to help address these risks is Bingocize, an evidence-based program designed by Jason Crandall, a professor of exercise science at Western Kentucky University in 2011. Bingocize is a 10-week fall prevention program designed to educate …

Does Student Interest In Rural Or Underserved Practice Change Following Exposure To A Full Time Rural Or Underserved Clinical Experience?, Hans D. Capistrano, Maxwell D. Giedlin, Kayla A. Houston

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Access to healthcare in rural areas remains a significant challenge, with rural communities facing unique barriers such as limited healthcare providers, increased travel distances, and lower insurance coverage rates. Nevada exemplifies this issue, ranking 45th in the United States in access to physical therapy services, with particularly low provider availability in its rural regions. Research suggests that clinical education experiences in rural and underserved areas may encourage healthcare professionals to practice in these communities post-graduation. This study examined the relationship between clinical experiences in rural and underserved settings amongst University of Nevada, Las Vegas Physical Therapy (UNLVPT) students’ interest in …

Expanding Anatomy Academy In The Las Vegas Metropolitan Area: A Service Learning Project To Improve Childhood Health Through Supplemental Educational Sessions, Alekzander Hall, Brandon Paige, Marlee Parkin, David Sanchez

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States, with approximately 18.5% of US children presenting with obesity. High levels of obesity are less common in higher income communities, but increasingly more prevalent in lower income communities. Currently in Clark County, Nevada, more specifically in lower socioeconomic communities and Title I schools within the Las Vegas area, there is an opportunity to educate students about the components of a healthier lifestyle to provide children with the tools to improve their health. Anatomy Academy (AA) is an eight-week health education program that was created to teach fourth and fifth grade …

Lower Limb Loss Related Physical Therapy Outcome Measures: A Scoping Review, Cassandra Evergreen, Harrison Hess, Ryan Orton

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This scoping review aims to explore the use of performance-based outcome measures (PBOMs) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in assessing the function of individuals with lower limb loss (LLL). The review identified common PBOMs, such as the 6- and 2-minute walk tests, Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP), which evaluate mobility and overall physical function. PROMs, like the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), focus on the prosthetic experience, including comfort, satisfaction, and quality of life. Both PBOMs and PROMs assess patient function, yet with differing emphases; PBOMs primarily evaluate physical performance while PROMs capture broader health attributes, …

Exploring Clinician Understanding Of Therapeutic Alliance, Melissa Cole, Robert Welsh, Susan Shore

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Background. Therapeutic alliance is being discussed more readily in allied health literature regarding its potential to improve functional outcomes and patient satisfaction with care. The construct was imported from psychotherapy literature, and the degree and depth of familiarity among practicing physical therapists have not been fully explored. Purpose. This study aims to gain insight into the general level of familiarity and perceptions of therapeutic alliance among practicing clinicians. Methods. A survey was designed to capture a broad professional point of view and distributed using an anonymous link. Results. 73 surveys were completed. 43.3% of respondents reported they were not familiar …

Vision For The Future Of Oncology Physical Therapy: Apta Oncology’S Strategic Plan, Christopher M. Wilson, Emily Compagner

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

This article summarizes the 2024-27 strategic plan of the Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy. The strategic plan consists of five strategic pillars — advocacy, engagement, education, collaboration, and research. Although the strategic plan is slated for another review in 2027, the 2024-27 strategic plan sets forth the key initiatives to advance the field of cancer physical therapy and oncology rehabilitation. This piece summarizes some key initiatives and how the academy and the profession will aim to achieve the APTA and APTA Oncology visions. For the full 2024-27 strategic plan of APTA Oncology, visit www.oncologypt.org.

Physiotherapy In Community-Based Rehabilitation In Middle And Low-Income Countries: A Scoping Review, Er D. Petil Jr., Napoleon R. Caballero

Philippine Journal of Physical Therapy

Introduction: Community-based rehabilitation (CBR) is a widely recognized approach to address the rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Physical therapy (PT) plays a crucial role within CBR programs. This study aimed to synthesize the current state of literature regarding the integration of PT in CBR programs in LMICs across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, examining key characteristics, reported outcomes, and challenges to implementation.

Methods: A comprehensive review of literature was conducted, focusing on studies published in the past decade. Data were extracted and synthesized in matrix format to compare and contrast findings across the …

Effect Of Prehabilitation On Functional Outcomes And Hospital Length Of Stay Following Total Joint Arthroplasty, Kristin Nicole Kaplewicz

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this study was to determine how prehabilitation effects functional outcomes and length of stay in patients that have undergone total joint arthroplasties. Patients have continued to report being unhappy with their results of surgery and a large majority of the time is secondary to patients not being appropriately prepared for what to expect during their surgical recovery period. This information is important because occupational therapists and physical therapists continue to strive to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. One of the ethical principles that healthcare providers commit to achieving is that of beneficence which means the clinicians must …

Impact Of Educational Models On Student Confidence In Acute Care Physical Therapy: A Comparative Analysis, Robert Dekerlegand, Pt, Mpt, Phd, Ccs

Department of Physical Therapy Posters

Background and Purpose

• Hybrid and blended education have evolved as innovative models to deliver physical therapy (PT) education.¹
• PT faculty rapidly integrated these models into their pedagogy during the COVID pandemic in 2020 and many have retained these methods.¹
• Assessment of these models most frequently use cognitive indicators of learning outcomes (e.g. National Physical Therapy Examination).²
• Noncognitive indicators (e.g. confidence and self-efficacy), should be considered when assessing new educational models in PT given their relationship with competency and career direction.^3-5
• The impact of “distance models” on noncognitive learning indicators is of particular value to acute care …

Adoption And Awareness Of Long-Covid Clinical Practice Guidelines Among Physical Therapists: A Nationwide Survey, Robert Dekerlegand, Pt, Mpt, Phd, Ccs, Malachy Clancy, Phd, Otr/L, Bcpr

Department of Physical Therapy Posters

Background and Purpose

• Approximately 15% of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop “Long-COVID” with persistent physical, cognitive, and/or mental symptoms potentially amendable to physical therapy.
• Variability exists in the rehabilitation approach for individuals receiving physical therapy for this novel condition.
• Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and other evidence-based resources exist to help standardized rehabilitation; however, it is unknown if physical therapists (PTs) are applying them in the management of individuals with Long-COVID.
• We surveyed PTs in the contiguous United States (U.S.) to explore their awareness and application of Long-COVID CPGs along with their general awareness of this condition.

Exploring Leadership In Physical Therapy: How Clarity, Connection, And Communication Influence Team Engagement, Burnout, And Achieving Organizational Objectives, Jason Collin

Dissertations

Purpose: The purpose of this mixed methods study was to identify and describe how highly effective PT leaders use the three competencies of HPTs (clarity, connection, and communication) to increase engagement, prevent burnout, and achieve organizational objectives. The second purpose of this study was to determine the degree of importance that highly effective PT leaders perceive the three HPTE core competencies impact their leadership for creating HPTs.

Methodology: The mixed methods study identified and described eight PT leaders’ perceptions of how they use clarity, connection, and communication to build and sustain HPTs. PT leaders were selected through purposive and snowball …

Exploring Vestibular Rehabilitation Self-Efficacy In Entry-Level Physical Therapy, Colin Hulls

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Capstones

Vestibular rehabilitation, commonly performed by physical therapists, aims to improve the function and quality of life of individuals experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or disequilibrium. Vestibular curricular variation across physical therapy programs may lead to discrepancies in the self-efficacy of entry-level physical therapists to manage this population. The purpose of this study was to examine self-efficacy in vestibular rehabilitation in entry-level physical therapy and identify facilitators and barriers to its development. An online, cross-sectional survey design was utilized for quantitative and qualitative data collection, including a modified version of the Physiotherapist Self-Efficacy (PSE) Questionnaire, from new graduates and students preparing to graduate. …

Assessment Of Physical Therapy Students’ Self-Efficacy And Accuracy Measuring Blood Pressure Using A Low-Fidelity Task Trainer, Daniel C. Dale, Deborah M. Wendland, Tiffany Haney

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine if use of a task trainer in physical therapy education improves the self-efficacy and accuracy of students when assessing blood pressure measurements. Methods: Participants from consecutive cohorts of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students (38 students per cohort) participated in the first semester of their first year of study in a DPT program. The study was conducted concurrently with the course in which the measurement of blood pressure and pulse rate are typically taught. In addition to traditional classroom instruction and lab practice for both groups, the experimental group also had …

The Effects Of Vestibular Rehabilitation Interventions On Patients With Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review, Christopher Farrell, Eduard Turner

Student Research Poster Presentations 2025

Background: Vestibular rehabilitation is known to be effective in the treatment of vestibular dysfunction. While patients with Parkinson's disease have both central and peripheral vestibular dysfunction, there is little information regarding the efficacy of vestibular rehabilitation for the treatment of these individuals.

Study Design: Systematic Review

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the effects of vestibular rehabilitation in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Results: The interventions identified in this study resulted in improved Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Dizziness Handicap Questionnaire (DHI) scores.

Conclusion: Vestibular rehabilitation improves balance and subjective dizziness in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

The Landscape Of Virtual Reality Use In Mobility Rehabilitation From 2010-2023: A Scoping Review, Danielle T. Felsberg, Reza Pousti, Charlend K. Howard, Scott E. Ross, Louisa D. Raisbeck, Jared T. Mcguirt, Christopher K. Rhea

Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty Publications

Significant advancements in virtual reality (VR) technology have occurred in the past decade, allowing clinical researchers to take advantage of these reduced barriers to explore the use of VR in patient populations. This scoping review on VR interventions to improve mobility in adults and children focuses on the literature from 2010-2023. A total of 2736 articles were screened and 126 articles met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies were conducted in inpatient clinical settings (n = 41) and investigated VR interventions to improve balance (n = 118). Less immersive (n = 108) products such as Nintendo Wii or Xbox …

The Use Of Virtual Reality To Improve Gait And Balance In Patients With Parkinson’S Disease: A Scoping Review, Jason Brumitt

Faculty Publications - College of Physical Therapy

(1) Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that impairs balance and postural control, gait, overall motor function, and mood, and involves the gradual degradation of several physiologic systems. With limited treatments available, physical therapy (PT)-based exercise is the nonpharmacologic measure of choice. There is a growing interest in using virtual reality (VR) gaming when rehabilitating patients with various acute brain injuries and neurological disorders. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine randomized controlled trials comparing VR-based rehabilitation programs versus traditional PT at improving gait and balance. (2) Methods: PubMed, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register …

The Efficacy Of Physical Activity Or Exercise Among Individuals With Cerebral Palsy: An Umbrella Review Of Systematic Reviews, Majed M. Alhumaid, Faris Yahya I. Asiri, Mohamed A. Said, Justin A. Haegele

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

Introduction

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common childhood disability, affecting 1.5-3 per 1000 live births. Physical exercises have been shown to improve muscle and limb outcomes in CP. This systematic review critically appraises existing systematic reviews on the effects of physical activity and exercise on physical, functional, and psychosocial outcomes in individuals with CP compared to those without.

Methods

Using a PICO framework, the question was: In patients with CP, do physical activity and exercise improve muscle- and limb-related outcomes compared to no intervention or usual care? PubMed, Cochrane, ISI Web of Science, and Embase were searched for systematic …

Oh, My Quad: A Clinical Commentary And Evidence-Based Framework For The Rehabilitation Of Quadriceps Size And Strength After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction, Braidy Solie, Mitchell Carlson, Christopher Doney, Michael Kiely, Robert Laprade

Physical Therapy Faculty Research and Publications

Quadriceps weakness after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a well-known phenomenon, with more persistent quadriceps weakness observed after ACLR with a bone-patellar tendon-bone or quadriceps tendon autograft than with a hamstring tendon autograft. Longstanding quadriceps weakness after ACLR has been associated with suboptimal postoperative outcomes and the progression of radiographic knee osteoarthritis, making the recovery of quadriceps size and strength a key component of ACLR rehabilitation. However, few articles have been written for the specific purpose of optimizing quadriceps size and strength after ACLR. Therefore, the purpose of this review article is to integrate the existing quadriceps muscle basic …

Defining The Peripheral Plasticity Of Nociceptive Afferents Following Spinal Cord Injury And Physical Therapy Intervention., Morgan Julianna Forston

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The focus of this dissertation is to explore the peripheral plasticity of nociceptive afferents following spinal cord injury (SCI) and whether it is exacerbated or induced when physical therapy-based muscle stretching, a therapy we have shown to be detrimental to locomotor recovery in rodents, is implemented post-SCI. Chapter I provides a brief introduction on sensory afferents with particular emphasis on nociceptive afferents and their multifaceted role within the peripheral and central nervous systems. Chapter II describes SCI epidemiology and common sensory related complications that occur in patients as well and pharmaco- and physical therapies that are employed post-SCI. Chapter III …

Exploring The Perceived Effects Of Integrating Unloader Braces And Exercise Therapy Interventions In Orthopedics And Sports Medicine: An Investigation Among Athletes With Knee Osteoarthritis, Lerome D. Pratt

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this doctoral applied research project was to examine the perceived effects of integrating unloader braces and exercise therapy interventions within orthopedics and sports medicine, specifically focusing on athletes diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The problem addressed by this study is the limited understanding of how combined treatment modalities can enhance functional abilities, alleviate pain, and improve overall well-being in this population. This research was driven by the rationale that existing conventional treatments often provide limited efficacy, necessitating a more comprehensive and personalized approach. The central research question explored how athletes with knee OA perceive the impact of …

Vestibular Rehabilitation Considerations For Chemotherapy-Induced Vestibulotoxicity: A Clinical Perspective, Tabitha Galindo

Oncology Rehabilitation in Practice

No abstract provided.

Sleep Disturbances Effect On The Development Of Disability Following A Motor Vehicle Collision: A Cohort Study, Bradford Callan, Morey J. Kolber, Joshua Cleland, James M. Elliott

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate sleep disturbance and calculate its effect on long-term outcomes for people with whiplash associated disorder (WAD) following a motor vehicle collision (MVC). Methods: A secondary analysis of data for 97 people (females = 72) diagnosed with WAD was collected at 10%. Logistic regression was used to calculate significance and odds ratios (OR) for the variables of age, body mass index (BMI), sex, and sleep disturbance. Results: With logistic regression age and BMI were non-significant factors, however, sex (ꭕ² = 9.37, p = 0.025; OR = 4.3) and …

Professional Identity Formation Through A Peer Learning, Integrated Clinical Experience, T.R. Goins, Michelle Green, Bridget Eubanks

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of first-year DPT students related to professional behaviors and professional identity formation after an integrated clinical experience facilitated by peers. Methods: Forty-one first-year DPT students from an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy program participated in a class assignment designed to collect qualitative data regarding their experiences with professional behaviors and professional identity formation after completing an integrated clinical experience. Incident coding processes analyzed responses to open-ended assignment prompts. Results: The most frequent professional behaviors students felt they could demonstrate during the integrated clinical experience were “communication” and …

Physical Therapy Management Of Myasthenia Gravis: A Case Study, Erin Hung, Gwendolyn Juha, Todd E. Davenport, Joy Williams

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease that involves dysfunction of the neuromuscular junction, and commonly involves fluctuating muscle weakness and central fatigue. Current literature lacks consensus on the benefit of exercise in addressing central fatigue in this population. This case report explores the role of physical therapy in an individual with MG for whom fatigue is a primary concern. Methods: This case study describes the physical therapy management of a 62-year-old Caucasian male recently diagnosed with myasthenia gravis. Physical therapy intervention focused on strength and balance training as well as patient education on energy conservation and activity pacing. …

Physical Therapy Management For An Individual With Stiff Person Syndrome In The Acute Care Setting: A Case Report, Paul Kim, Christina Berdoulay, Todd E. Davenport, Joy Williams

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disease which is characterized by progressive rigidity and painful spasms of axial and limb muscles. We report here on the physical therapy management as well as medical complications which impacted the physical therapy plan of care for a patient with paraneoplastic SPS in the acute care setting. Method: This case report describes rehabilitation management of a 71-year-old woman who presented in the acute care setting for complaints of progressively worsening stiffness in the bilateral lower extremities leading to multiple falls as well as dysphagia. Primary interventions for this patient included passive …

The Role Of The Physical Therapist In Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Systematic And Qualitative Perspectives, Garrett Matthew Hainline

Theses and Dissertations

Introduction: Physical activity (PA) is an effective tool in the management of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). PA recommendations for people with T2D are to achieve at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity PA. This assists to maintain blood glucose control and reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors. Unfortunately, people with T2D are less likely than their normoglycemic peers to meet PA recommendations.

Veterans of the armed forces experience T2D at even greater levels than the general population, with prevalence at about 20%. In addition, T2D and pre-diabetes are elevated among younger veterans, including those of recent conflicts. Reducing rates …