Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Increasing Physical Activity In Moderate-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Protocol For A Two-Stage Randomized Controlled Trial Of A Remote, Mhealth-Enhanced Intervention, Tessa Hart, Monica Vaccaro, Lauren Krasucki, Inna Chervoneva, Amanda Rabinowitz

Moss-Magee Rehabilitation Papers

OBJECTIVE: Protocol for randomized controlled trial (RCT) examining effects of novel, remotely delivered intervention (called GetUp&Go) to increase physical activity (PA) in chronic, moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (msTBI), including a mobile health (mHealth) component.

DESIGN: RCT (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT06028334) with 1:1 randomization to 10 weeks of immediate treatment (IT) or waitlist (WL), with primary outcome measured at 10 weeks. A second randomization to 10 weeks of continued mHealth support vs. no treatment will allow for examination of effects of mHealth on maintenance of treatment gains.

PARTICIPANTS: 70 community-dwelling adults ≥6 months post msTBI; medically cleared and physically/ cognitively able to participate; …

Mindfulness Approach Used To Reduce The Impact Of Internalized Psychopathology: Anxiety And Depression, Taniyah Drayton

The Kean Review: Journal in Student Research

The emergence of mindfulness practices has increased in medical spaces throughout recent years. Mindfulness was once seen strictly for its spiritual origins, yet beginning in the late 20th century it began being assessed for its reliability in treating individuals who experienced extreme levels of pain and stress. Its origin “is often spoken of as ‘the heart of Buddhist meditation,’” as Kabat-Zinn discusses (Kabat-Zinn, 2011). Kabat-Zinn, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, introduced a new translation for mindfulness in 1979 through highlighting the skills individuals can learn and apply throughout their daily life. Kabat-Zinn …

Comparing Educational Pathways For Denturists To Become Maxillofacial Prosthetic Specialists In The Us And The Uk, Minseok Kim

Oral Health

Abstract

In the absence of formal training, licensure, and professionalism, this scientific literature review will seek to include denturists in the American maxillofacial prosthetics industry. Denturists are oral health professionals who perform oral examination, design, manufacture, and place removable oral prostheses. In other regions of the world, they are also known as clinical dental technologists and dental prosthetists. This practice is not widespread in the US. The review can also be assessed on the model mediated by PRISMA, which is concentrated on the experiences of international education in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, where the concentration further revolves around …

The Efficacy Of Computerized Visual Scanning Training Tools In Vision Rehabilitation Following Acquired Brain Injury, Lulwah Almulhim

ETDs from 2020-2029

Various neurological conditions, including acquired brain injuries, can cause visual scanning deficits, which disrupt the ability to gather and interpret visual information. Computerized training tools, such as light boards, are utilized to enhance functional vision and occupational performance. The Dynavision (D2) is a well-established visuomotor training tool primarily utilized to address visual field and visual scanning deficits. The Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS) is a touchscreen-based rehabilitation tool designed to assess and enhance vision, motor skills, cognition, and balance. To our knowledge, normative data for BITS visual scanning programs have not been established. We conducted a scoping review to identify …

Exercise Testing And Training For Individuals With Cystic Fibrosis, Najlaa Zayed Alotaibi

ETDs from 2020-2029

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive genetic disease that impacts multiple systems (e.g., respiratory system). Hence, routine cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is recommended to track the disease progression in people with CF. Besides the benefits of exercise testing, exercise training is also beneficial for long-term wellness. It is recommended that people with CF engage in at least 30–60 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 days a week. However, despite the significance of exercise testing and training for people with CF, CPET and exercise training are underutilized in international CF centers. According to the literature, the majority of international CF centers use …

Analysis Of The Effect Of Neuro-Developmental Treatment (Ndt) On Gross Motor Function In Children With Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review, Haunan Naja Izdihar, Aditya Denny Pratama

Jurnal Vokasi Indonesia

Effectiveness of Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) in Children with Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

Background:
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) is commonly used in pediatric rehabilitation to improve motor function in children with cerebral palsy, particularly those with spastic diplegia.

Methods:
This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Seven studies published between 2018 and 2024 were identified through electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and Crossref.

Results:
The included studies reported improvements in gross motor function, posture, balance, and daily functional independence following NDT, particularly when combined with other therapeutic interventions. However, outcome measures and …

Assessing Learning In Simulation Learning Experiences In Graduate Programs For Speech-Language Pathology: A Phenomenological Study, Robyn Walker, Casey Ozaki

Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders

The purpose of this study was to use qualitative inquiry to explore how faculty assess student learning in clinical simulation-based learning experiences (SBLEs) used to demonstrate clinical competence in graduate programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders: Speech-Language Pathology (CSD). The following research questions were addressed: How do faculty experience the assessment of learning in SBLE? In what ways do faculty assess student learning in SBLE specifically designed to meet clinical competency standards? What, if any, effect has the COVID-19 pandemic had on the use of SBLE and assessment of student learning used to address clinical competency standards? A total of …

Dual-Task Effects On Spatiotemporal, Kinematic, And Kinetic Parameters And Their Variability During Running, Hsiang-Ling Teng, Jo Armour Smith, Will F.W. Wu

Physical Therapy Faculty Articles and Research

Background

Running in real-world environments often requires using cognitive resources simultaneously with the motor task (dual tasking, DT). Limited existing evidence suggests that DT reduces running speed. Movement variability is essential for a healthy, adaptable motor system. DT has been shown to affect movement variability during walking. Nonetheless, it remains unclear how DT affects spatiotemporal, kinematic, and kinetic parameters and their variability during running.

Research question

Does DT affect spatiotemporal, kinematic, and kinetic measures and their variability during running? Does running speed influence DT effects?

Methods

Thirty-one asymptomatic runners participated in this cross-sectional study. Three-dimensional running biomechanics were recorded while …

Plans4care, A Web Application Providing Caregivers Personalized Solutions To Manage Dementia-Related Care Challenges: Proof Of Concept And Efficacy Trial, Laura N. Gitlin, Eric Jutkowitz, Catherine V. Piersol, Sokha Koeuth, Taylor Sivori, Melinda J. Webster, Rachel N. Barnett, David L. Roth

Department of Occupational Therapy Faculty Papers

OBJECTIVE: Few dementia caregivers have access to evidence-based support programs. Web applications (app) may address this gap. Plans4Care, a web app, provides caregivers with on-demand personalized solutions to address care challenges. We present results of a proof-of-concept study and describe a trial protocol to test efficacy.

METHODS: To use Plans4Care, caregivers respond to brief onboarding questions, assess dementia patients' cognitive function, identify care challenges, and generate "action plans" (personalized strategies). Telehealth sessions with dementia-trained care advisors are available. A proof-of-concept study evaluated a clickable prototype using standardized technology scales to determine if >75 % scored positively on four criteria (acceptability, …

Reconstructing Life One Clay Pot At A Time, Kelly Allen

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Kate Lewis, a ceramicist and teaching artist based in Grand Rapids, MI, created the artwork for the Winter 2026 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). The image features a collection of heart-shaped ceramic pinch pots, produced after she was told she may never be able to move her left arm again. She created them on the recommendation of an occupational therapist who understood the value of meaningful occupations for recovery. These vessels represent a pivotal shift in Kate’s rehabilitation from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Diagnosed in 2018 after sustaining an injury to her wrist, the minor …

Meeting Population Health Needs: Are Occupational Therapy Health Promotion Programs Scalable?, Tracy Chippendale, Szu-Wei Chen

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

Facilitators And Barriers To Sustainable Global Rehabilitation Projects, Fredrick Pociask, Rosanne Dizazzo-Miller

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The sustainability of projects addressing significant rehabilitation needs in lower-resource countries is considered one of the most critical outcomes of these initiatives. While some information is available from public health and medical projects on promoting sustainability, less evidence exists on facilitators and barriers to the sustainability of global rehabilitation development projects. Interviews with eleven medical and rehabilitation professionals, each with over 8 years of experience in global project development, contributed to the discussion of barriers and facilitators for sustainability with direct implications for occupational therapy practice and research. The presence of established professional standards was a distinctive facilitator, and disruptions …

Brain Gains: A Review Of Remediation Treatment Strategies Using Exercise Following Traumatic Brain Injury, Jessica Smith, Kristin Biggins, Loriann Helgeson

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

In this Opinions in the Profession article, we explore remediation treatment strategies using exercise for recovery from post-traumatic brain injury and aim to justify the use of such treatment in the occupational therapy profession to increase skills for functional gain. Common treatment strategies used by occupational therapists after brain injury are compensatory strategies, indicating the client learns a new way to perform the task. Though effective, it is also necessary to consider how remediation and neuroplasticity are essential. Teaching new approaches to complete tasks results in functional gains; however, focusing on foundational skills using exercises to relearn motor patterns to …

Professional Standards As Gateways, Not Barriers, In Occupational Therapy, Ryan Thomure

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

Understanding Graduate Occupational Therapy Educators’ Use Of Trauma-Informed Approaches In The Classroom, Sean M. Brim

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Traumatic events can alter the brain structure and affect cognitive capacities and academic performance. Educators at all grade levels are responsible for supporting students through trauma-informed approaches. Previous trauma-informed research focused on K–12 education levels. The experience of graduate-level occupational therapy educators who have applied trauma-informed approaches to improve student learning have not been explored. This general qualitative study explored the experiences of occupational therapy educators who used trauma-informed approaches. The conceptual framework was the trauma-informed care model. Ten graduate-level occupational therapy educators with at least 1 year of teaching experience were recruited and participated in semi structured interviews. Data …

Perceived Educational Value Of Different Types Of Simulation In Occupational Therapy Education: A Mixed-Methods Study, Marie-Eve Bolduc, Barbara Shankland, Bernadette Nedelec

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Simulation is an important instructional method in occupational therapy (OT) programs. However, it remains unclear if the various types of simulation hold the same educational value. The objective of this study was to determine the perceived educational value of three different types of simulations (role-play between students, live scenarios with simulated patients [SPs] and tele-simulation with SPs) and the factors that contributed to a higher educational value. This cross-sectional study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. An online questionnaire was used, and two focus groups were conducted to develop a richer understanding of the answers obtained in the questionnaire. Forty-two …

Investigating The Efficacy Of An Online Multigenerational Awareness Course For Occupational Therapy Students – A Pilot Study, Susan Blair, Barbara M. Doucet, Jerilyn Callen, Kirsten Davin, Shelby Hutchinson

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

In today’s multigenerational society, particularly in health care settings, thriving can be challenging because of generational differences. Occupational therapy educational programs (OTEPs) prepare students for work environments where three to four different generations may be present. This study examines the effectiveness of an online multigenerational awareness (MGA) course. The secondary objectives include increasing students’ knowledge of enhanced multigenerational collaboration and communication strategies in preparation for future clinical practice. A pilot group of eight participants from various university departments reviewed the course content and completed preenrollment and postenrollment surveys, providing feedback regarding the applicability and perceived usefulness of the multigenerational awareness …

Intentional Resiliency Mentoring: A Mixed Methods Study Exploring A Pilot Mentorship Program For Occupational Therapy Students, Courtney J. Taylor, Ana K. Brussa, Kate G. Barlow

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Because of high levels of reported stress, occupational therapy (OT) students’ ability to employ interpersonal skills and professionally manage conflicts is impeded. This mixed methods pilot study investigated the impact of an Intentional Relationship Model (IRM) informed mentorship program on OT students’ perceived stress and self-efficacy for interpersonal communication. Students (N = 21) completed pre and posttests of the Self Efficacy for Therapeutic Use of Self Scale (SETUS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Six monthly mentor journals (N = 6) were collected to further explore the student experience. Quantitative findings demonstrated students’ (N = 21) ability to manage stress …

Occupational Therapy Students’ Perspectives On Using Virtual Reality Simulation In Preparation For Objective Structured Clinical Examinations: A Qualitative Study, Pegah Firouzeh, Craig R. St. Jean, Christine Ha, Mary Roduta Roberts

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The use of virtual reality (VR) simulations in clinical education has been receiving increased research attention. The purpose of this study was to investigate first-year occupational therapy (OT) students’ experiences using a VR-simulated clinical interview as part of their preparation for a client history-taking Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This qualitative study used focus groups to understand students’ (n = 20) perceptions of the effect of VR simulation on learning and exam readiness. We also explored students’ perceptions of the simulation’s authenticity, strengths, and weaknesses. Qualitative data analysis was conducted to identify codes and develop categories in association with the …

Ruth Coleman Denard (1906-2002): One Of The First Registered Black Occupational Therapists, Mirline Milien

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The experiences and contributions of underrepresented groups in the occupational therapy profession are insufficiently explored and largely absent from occupational therapy education. For instance, the narratives of early Black occupational therapists and students are virtually nonexistent in the literature. As the profession moves toward greater inclusivity, it is essential to uncover these hidden stories and legacies to better understand the profession’s evolution and help shape its future. This article highlights Ruth Coleman Denard, one of the first registered Black occupational therapists in the United States, and provides an overview of her career trajectory. Historical research methods, including a review of …

An Occupation-Based Review Of Assessments Used In Pediatric Occupational Therapy Practice, Alysha Skuthan, Wendy B. Stav, Gracyn Mcvey, Jennifer Martinez, Marissa Hunter, Erin Diroll, Maureen Flanagan

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Assessment tools are a critical component of the occupational therapy evaluation process. Despite the profession’s push toward occupation-centered practice, the classification of assessment tools as occupation-based versus skill-based does not exist. An occupation-based review of pediatric occupational therapy assessment tools was completed and scored according to the Occupation-Based Practice Assessment to classify assessment tools on a continuum of discrete or skill-based to occupation-based. Of the top 11 most frequently used tools, four were classified as occupation-based, three were classified as intermediate, and four were classified as discrete. In total, only 36% of commonly selected assessment tools are occupation-based. Pediatric occupational …

Maternal Role Transition: A Quality Of Life Frame Of Reference For Mothering After Nicu, Wendy Gaughan, Kathryn A. Lemonda

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists are uniquely skilled to address the needs of a new mother and the infant during transition to motherhood, as acquisition of this new role may cause a role strain with other previously held roles. New mothers to infants requiring a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization experience additional stressors and considerations during this role transition. The Maternal Role Transition (MRT) Frame of Reference is a novel, community-based approach to facilitate attainment and integration of mothering occupations and address role strain during the perinatal period. MRT is rooted in the theoretical foundations of Maternal Role Attainment Theory, Self Efficacy …

Rehabilitation Habits And Roles: The Dual Impact Of Iadls And Psychosocial Interventions Poststroke, William Sit, Ryan Hulla, Veronica Smith, Joanna Ruiz, Steve Abraham

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: This randomized study assessed an 8-week program for stroke survivors at an outpatient center in the United States. The program focuses on a holistic approach to recovery through habits and roles.

Method: Two researchers randomly divided 19 participants (N = 19) into two groups, with each group focusing on two distinct programs: the Occupational Therapy Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) program and the Psychosocial Modules (PS) program for stroke survivors. Participants attended weekly group sessions and individual phone sessions, which reinforced learned strategies, provided personalized guidance, and ensured adherence to program goals. The Canadian Occupational Performance …

Enhancing Self-Esteem In Adolescents During Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization: A Mixed Methods Study, Praveen Injeti, Julie D. Kugel, Dragana Krpalek, Liane Hewitt, Lida Gharibvand

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Low self-esteem (LSE) can negatively impact adolescent mental health, leading to suicidal ideation (SI). Social stressors, such as peer rejections, are considered a source of stress that can contribute to LSE, SI, and subsequent admission to psychiatric facilities. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention to improve self-awareness and self-esteem during short-term hospitalization.

Method: The research used a mixed methods approach to evaluate the impact of a psychoeducational intervention by an occupational therapist on 16 adolescents. The Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES) was used before the intervention (pretest), immediately after the intervention (posttest …

A Polyvagal And Sensory Integration And Processing Approach To Supporting Development In Young Children With Autism, Catherine Cavaliere, Nadia Rust, Michelle Rogowski, Alyssa Calderone, Rebecca Marash, Amy Zdrodowski, John Damiao

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: The polyvagal theory presents a framework for understanding the autonomic nervous system’s role in influencing behavior, engagement, and connection. Children with autism experience regulation and sensory integration and processing differences that impact their sense of felt safety and engagement in their environment. The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an auditory program designed to stimulate the vagal system and support nervous system regulation.

Methods: A retrospective multiple subject pretest-posttest design was used to examine the impact of the SSP on regulation, engagement, and skill acquisition in children with autism ages 2 to 3 enrolled in an early intervention center …

More Than Covering Ears: A Clinical Inventory For Characterizing Decreased Sound Tolerance (I-Dst) In Autism, Tana B. Carson, Angela Medina, Katherine L. Long, Yuxi Qiu, Monica Noriega

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Decreased sound tolerance (DST) is among the most common and distressing forms of sensory over-responsivity experienced by children with autism spectrum disorders. DST includes hyperacusis and misophonia, among others, and can limit participation in daily activities. Recently, a new screening tool, the Pediatric Hyperacusis and Misophonia Questionnaire (PMHQ-4) has been developed to allow health professionals to better identify and differentiate these conditions using a single assessment. Additional clinical tools are needed to further characterize DST symptoms to facilitate treatment planning after diagnosis.

Methods: In this mixed-methods study n = 15 parents of autistic children 6 to 17 …

State Of The Journal: Advancing And Promoting Frames Of Reference For Occupational Therapy Practice, Diane Powers Dirette

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

The Impacts Of Age-Related Peripheral Hearing Loss, Central Auditory Processing, And Cognition On Quality Of Life In Older Adults: A Scoping Review, Brian M. Kreisman, Samantha E. Vasquez, Anna J. Bierma

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

This scoping review aims to synthesize peer-reviewed literature exploring quality of life (QoL) for individuals with age-related hearing loss (ARHL), age-related central auditory processing (ARCAP) deficits, and age-related cognitive decline. A growing body of research has identified ARHL as a risk factor for the development of dementia, highlighting the connection between the sensory and cognitive systems. As the aging population continues to grow, examining comorbid age-related hearing and cognitive decline is especially relevant. These conditions may have potential negative consequences on the daily functioning, social participation, mental health, and overall wellbeing of older adults. A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature …

Interprofessional Collaboration In Inpatient Rehabilitation For Patient With Thiamine Deficiency-Related Sensorimotor And Cognitive Deficits – Case Report, Christina Thomas, Tahreem Hashmi, Joanne Delgado-Lebron, Rania Massad

Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration

Purpose: We aim to describe the clinical presentation, interprofessional management, and functional outcomes of a patient with thiamine deficiency. Problem: Thiamine deficiency can result in peripheral polyneuropathy and cognitive deficits that limit function and participation. Despite deficits that warrant interprofessional neurorehabilitation, previous reports focus narrowly on medical management. Case: A 36-year-old female was admitted to inpatient rehabilitation with a diagnosis of Guillain Barre. She underwent evaluation by the interprofessional team that revealed cognitive deficits inconsistent with Guillain Barre. Further medical workup identified a thiamine deficiency. Comprehensive treatment included supplementation managed by the physiatrist; promotion of motor learning and neuroplasticity to …

Fear Of Falling: A Collaborative Approach To Treatment, Alexandra Uhren, Celeste Delap, Kate Jansen

Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration

Purpose: Physical Therapy (PT) and Behavioral Health (BH) often overlap in patient care; however, collaborative treatment is always not utilized by providers. This case study details the interdisciplinary treatment of a 69-year-old female with a fear of falling; emphasizing the importance of interprofessional collaborative care in treating Fear of Falling (FOF) in individuals at risk for fall-related injury with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and PT interventions.

Problem: FOF is common among older adults and can result in physical, psychological, and social consequences (Lee & Tak, 2023; MacKay et al., 2021). Patients at risk of fall-related injury experience decreased self-confidence in …