Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons^™

Living With Fragile X Syndrome: Occupations As An Outcome Measure In A Clinical Trial, Theresa Chase, Ty Duong, Ana Baldinger, Kaylee Gothelf

Dissertations, Masters Theses, Capstones, and Culminating Projects

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of semi-structured interviews as an outcome measure in a clinical trial for children with fragile X syndrome (FXS). A qualitative approach was used to analyze twenty-five parent interviews with children with FXS who participated in a double-blind medication trial. Each participant received either sertraline or a placebo. The aim of this research was to assess differences in occupational functioning in the sertraline group and placebo group, that may not have been detected with the use quantitative outcome measures alone. Results showed greater improvements in the sertraline group in areas of …

Older Adults’ Perspective: Exploring The Experience Of Owning A Guide Dog, Jeffrey Kou, Yvonne Lam, Patricia Lyons, Susan Nguyen

Dissertations, Masters Theses, Capstones, and Culminating Projects

Guide dogs have been shown to be an effective assistive device that can help older adults with low vision navigate their community and improve overall well-being. Despite vast research conducted on pet therapy and dog companionship, limited research exists on the facilitators and barriers of owning a dog guide among older adults with low vision. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study is to explore the facilitators and barriers of owning a guide dog as experienced by older adults with low vision participating in Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) organization. Data were gathered among seven participants using semi-structured phone …

Speech-Language Pathologist's Perspectives On The Efficacy Of Bilingual Education Programs In South Texas Public Schools For English As A Second Language Learners, Alexandra Rosas

Theses and Dissertations

Current research in regard to the assessment and treatment of ESLs is limited. Other problems found within the school setting, is that fact that SLPs have very limited resources and large caseloads. Hence, the fact that previous studies have found that SLPS working the school setting do not feel competent in serving ESL students.

The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of bilingual programs and explore the factors that impact English as a second language learners (ESLs), in public schools across the Rio Grande Valley. School based speech-language pathologists were surveyed for information concerning their perceptions and …

Physical Therapy Review Of Best Practices Based On Psychology, Bethany Painter

Honors Projects

Physical therapy is a field that is growing and changing constantly. For so long, it was assumed that physical healing should be the sole focus of physical therapy. While this is an important aspect of the rehabilitation process, there is so much more to it than that. The psychological trauma a person may experience following an injury can be just as challenging, if not more challenging to overcome than the physical repercussions of the injury. For this reason, it is important to take psychological healing into consideration, as well as physical healing when creating best practices for physical therapists. The …

Supplemental Training And Injury Prevention In The Sport Of Ultra-Running, Jessica M. Heidebrink

Senior Honors Theses

By definition, ultra-marathon running is a sport that covers any distance above the 26.2-mile marathon distance in a single race. The mountains of Virginia host many ultra-marathon races that attract endurance runners from all over the nation to participate. Training is an essential component of running an ultra. Although there is not one specific way to train for an ultra, there is research that correlates the success of the top ultra-runners and their training preferences regarding supplemental training and injury prevention. To gain a more complete understanding of how to prepare for a successful ultra-marathon, an online survey was created …

Spinal Cord Trauma: An Overview Of Normal Structure And Function, Primary And Secondary Mechanisms Of Injury, And Emerging Treatment Modalities, Daniel Morin

Senior Honors Theses

The structures of the spinal cord and vertebral column are designed to provide flexibility, while still providing ample protection for the spinal cord deep within. While it does offer remarkable protection against most routine trauma, the spinal cord is still vulnerable to high-force etiologies of trauma and may become damaged as a result. These events are referred to as primary injury. Following the initial injury, the body’s own physiological responses cause a cascade of deleterious effects, known as secondary injury. Secondary injury is a major therapeutic target in mitigating the effects of spinal cord injury (SCI), and much research is …

An Exploratory Study Of Military Management Practices, Physical Activity, And The Prevalence Of Shin Splints In Rotc Cadets, Jakayla Campbell

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS, Shin splints) is very common in military personnel accounting for up to 35% of incidences, which is almost twice the incidence seen in the average active individual. Each year there is in increase number of injuries in Army recruits. Though Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs are known for commissioning approximately 60% of 2^nd Lieutenants and 40% of generals on active Army duty, no research has been done examining MTSS occurrences in relation to military management practices. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between military management practices and …

The Effects Of Dance Therapy On Voice In Patients With Parkinson's Disease In A Multicultural Population, Ivon N. Ramirez

Theses and Dissertations

Current literature suggests that dance therapy in individuals with Parkinson’s disease shows noticeable improvement in motor functions, for example gait and balance improvement. Additionally, patients with Parkinson’s disease who participate in dance therapy may perceive positive benefits on their quality of life. Therefore, it is believed that increases in core support and improvements in posture, as a result of dance therapy, will have effects on the voice in patients with PD.

This thesis pulls from literature supporting treatment approaches in the field of speech-language pathology for voice patients with Parkinson’s disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the …

Sex Differences In Mechanisms Of Recovery After Isometric And Dynamic Fatiguing Tasks, Jonathon Senefeld, Hugo M. Pereira, Nicholas Elliott, Tejin Yoon, Sandra K. Hunter

Exercise Science Faculty Research and Publications

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether supraspinal mechanisms contribute to the sex difference in fatigability during and recovery from a dynamic and isometric fatiguing task with the knee extensors.

Methods: Transcranial magnetic stimulation and electrical stimulation were used to determine voluntary activation and contractile properties of the knee extensors in 14 men and 17 women (20.8 ± 1.9 yr) after a 1) 60-s sustained, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and 2) dynamic fatiguing task involving 120 maximal voluntary concentric contractions with a 20% MVIC load.

Results: There were no differences between men and women in the …

Ischemic Conditioning Increases Strength And Volitional Activation Of Paretic Muscle In Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Study, Allison S. Hyngstrom, Spencer A. Murphy, Jennifer Nguyen, Brian D. Schmit, Francesco Negro, David D. Gutterman, Matthew J. Durand

Physical Therapy Faculty Research and Publications

Ischemic conditioning (IC) on the arm or leg has emerged as an intervention to improve strength and performance in healthy populations, but the effects on neurological populations are unknown. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of a single session of IC on knee extensor strength and muscle activation in chronic stroke survivors. Maximal knee extensor torque measurements and surface EMG were quantified in 10 chronic stroke survivors (>1 yr poststroke) with hemiparesis before and after a single session of IC or sham on the paretic leg. IC consisted of 5 min of compression with a …

Shoulder Instability Surgical Techniques, Spencer Rotter

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

Anterior shoulder instability is a common problem in the athletic population. Treatment for this problem typically involves rehabilitation and if instability continues surgical repair to stabilize the joint. The technique that is used is controversial. Focused Clinical Question: In patients with anterior shoulder instability what is the effectiveness of the Bristow Latarjet coracoid bone block compared to capsular shift with suture anchors on the recurrence of dislocation? Search strategy:The search for research studies began on PubMed, CINAHL Plus, and Pro-Quest Nursing. The search terms included anterior shoulder instability, surgical techniques, treatments. With these search terms brought up about 250 studies. …

Performance Anxiety And The Benefits Of Proper Breathing For Singing, Kate Zecher

Undergraduate Theses

The intent of this thesis is to help those with Music Performance Anxiety, or anxiety in general, better understand their anxiety and its causes. They can then use this knowledge to reduce or control their symptoms in order to improve their performance, whether on a stage or in a classroom. One of the main symptoms of Music Performance Anxiety is constriction of the chest. It is one of the most debilitating symptoms to singers as it causes shortness of breath. Therefore, focusing on anxiety in relation to breathing will most benefit those with Music Performance Anxiety. In addition, learning about …

A 6-Week Hip Muscle Strengthening And Lumbopelvic-Hip Core Stabilization Program To Improve Pain, Function, And Quality Of Life In Persons With Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis: A Feasibility Pilot Study., Lisa T. Hoglund, Laura Pontiggia, John D. Kelly

Department of Physical Therapy Faculty Papers

Background: Patellofemoral joint (PFJ) osteoarthritis (OA) is prevalent in middle-aged and older adults. Despite this, there are minimal studies which have examined conservative interventions for PFJ OA. Weakness of proximal lower extremity muscles is associated with PFJ OA. It is unknown if a hip muscle strengthening and lumbopelvic-hip core stabilization program will improve symptoms and function in persons with PFJ OA. This study examined the feasibility and impact of a 6-week hip muscle strengthening and core stabilization program on pain, symptoms, physical performance, peak muscle torques, and quality of life in persons with PFJ OA.

Methods: Ten females with PFJ …

Surgical Interventions For Distal Radius Fractures, Jake Dotseth

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

The Impact Of Blood Pressure Dipping Status On Cognition, Mobility And Cardiovascular Health In Older Adults Following An Exercise Program, Narlon Cassio Boa Sorte Silva, Michael A. Greagory, Dawn P. Gill, Cheri L. Mcgowan, Robert Petrella

Lifestyle Research Team

Objectives: To determine whether a dual-task gait and aerobic exercise intervention differentially impacted older adults with normal blood pressure (BP) dipping status (dippers) compared to those with nondipping status (nondippers).

Methods: This study was a secondary analysis involving participants (mean age = 70.3 years, 61% women) who attended a laboratory-based exercise intervention over a 6-month period (40 min/day and 3 days/week). Participants were assessed in measures of cognition, mobility, and cardiovascular health at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months (after a 6-month no-contact follow-up).

Results: We observed improvements in cognition in both groups at 6 and 12 months, although no …

Comparison Of Two Surgical Methods For Slap Lesions, Holly Winiarczyk

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

Function-Based Comparison Of Bracing And Taping On Lateral Ankle Sprains, Payton Lindsey

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries associated with athletes. Based on the current evidence, external support has been found to be one of the most effective preventative measures for ankle injuries alongside neuromuscular training.Focused Clinical Question: The purpose of this review was to find the difference in effects between taping and bracing for the treatment of lateral ankle sprains when focusing of functionality using the Karlsson score or its components. Search Strategy:Participants were included if they were between the ages of 16 and 65, and reported with a history of an isolated lateral ankle sprain within …

Surgical Methods For Distal Radius Fractures, Heather Pierce

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

Partnering For Success! Occupational Therapy, Industrial Design, & Medicine: Creating Innovative Solutions, Brenna Jacko, Ots, Megan Vesey, Ots, Nuriya Neumann, Ots, Mikael Avery, Ms, Otr/L, M. Arch, Kim Mollo, Otd, Otr/L

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

No abstract provided.

Ot In Pediatric Primary Care, Anne H. Zachry, J. Flick

Faculty Presentations

This session described a program where licensed occupational therapists and master’s level OT students provide free developmental screenings to infants and young children in local pediatric medical practice. Strategies for strategies for developing relationships and bridging communication between occupational therapists, primary practice physicians, and families were reviewed.

Plantar Fasciitis: Platelet Rich Plasma Vs. Corticosteroid Injection, Hailey Ebacher

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

Optimal Treatment For Decreasing Re-Dislocation Rate Following Primary Patellar Dislocation, Jesse Moline

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

Reflecting The Communities That We Serve: Embracing Diversity And Inclusion Initiatives In Occupational Therapy Education, Jonette Ishmael, Ots, Nuriya Neumann, Ots, Tracey Vause-Earland, Otr/L, Phd

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Background

• There is a current lack of diversity seen in OT classrooms across the country.
• It is paramount we create a diverse occupational therapy student body in order to meet the needs of the diverse communities we serve.
• Students, educators, and therapists, need to develop cultural reflexivity, humility and safety when serving patients of various background (Taff & Blash, 2017).
• Through establishing diversity and inclusion initiatives within OT education we can increase awareness and provide education that will radically shape the OT workforce in coming years.
• Efforts to diversify OT programs is key to progressing as a profession, and reflecting …

Facilitating Emotional Regulation In Adults With Developmental Disabilities Through Person-Centered Play Therapy, Otis Kemutambah

Honors Theses

Adults with developmental disabilities may employ maladaptive behaviors that stem from limited opportunities to interact with their community and non-nurturing interactions within their environment. This literature review explores the effects of play on maladaptive behaviors and provides a rationale that supports the use of PCPT to improve this population’s emotional regulation skills. More specifically, the sources indicate that activities containing exercise and games, improves the emotional regulation skills of this population. Based on the presented information, created cost effective activities will potentially improve these skills amongst adults with developmental disabilities. These activities that adhere to PCPT are basketball, water basketball, …

Measuring The Outcomes Of Therapeutic Listening® In Children With Learning And Developmental Disabilities, Donielle Hair, Phoebe Taasan, Hannah Tashjian, Julia L. Wilbarger

Student Research Posters

A practice-based evidence (PBE) approach was used to explore the outcomes of the Therapeutic Listening® technique. PBE examines how effective clinical practice is within the actual clinical context. PBE capitalizes on using customary procedures and measures to establish clinical outcomes. (Horn & Gassaway, 2010; Swisher, 2010).

Therapeutic Listening® (TL®) is a sound-based intervention broadly used by pediatric OTs as a complement to sensory integration interventions for children with sensory processing disorders.

The Impact Of Prosthetics On Amputee Quality Of Life, Courtney Tabor

Liberal Arts Capstones

After someone has a limb amputated, their lifestyle must be rearranged to accommodate for the loss of the limb. This can include adjusting to an inability to do tasks that used to come easily and a drastic reduction in mobility. They may now require assistance with caring for themselves. As a side effect, amputees often experience a significant level of depression and anxiety related to their situation. A selection of literature was analyzed for the physiological, psychological, and sociological effects of losing a limb, and then for the ways in which a prosthetic limb would alleviate some of these issues. …

Reducing Re-Rupture With Surgery Or Conservative Treatment, Austin Mihalovic

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

Comparison Of Meniscectomy To Conservative Management On Meniscus Repair, Austin Feltner

Undergraduate Research Celebration 2018

No abstract provided.

Rehabilitation: The Health Strategy Of The 21st Century., Gerold Stucki, Jerome Bickenbach, Christoph Gutenbrunner, John L. Melvin

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Faculty Papers

There is strong evidence that population ageing and the epidemiological transition to a higher incidence of chronic, non-communicable diseases will continue to profoundly impact societies worldwide, putting more pressure on healthcare systems to respond to the needs of the people they serve. These trends argue for the need to address what matters to people about their health: limitations in their functioning that affect their day-to-day actions and goals in life. From its inception, rehabilitation, 1 of the 4 health strategies identified in the Declaration of Alma Ata in 1978, has had functioning as its outcome of interest. Its practitioners are …

Strengthening Health-Related Rehabilitation Services At National Levels., Christoph Gutenbrunner, Jerome Bickenbach, John L. Melvin, Jorge Lains, Boya Nugraha

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Faculty Papers

OBJECTIVE: One of the aims of the World Health Organization's Global Disability Action Plan is to strengthen rehabilitation services. Some countries have requested support to develop (scale-up) rehabilitation services. This paper describes the measures required and how (advisory) missions can support this purpose, with the aim of developing National Disability, Health and Rehabilitation Plans.

RECOMMENDATIONS: It is important to clarify the involvement of governments in the mission, to define clear terms of reference, and to use a systematic pathway for situation assessment. Information must be collected regarding policies, health, disability, rehabilitation, social security systems, the need for rehabilitation, and the …