Occupational Therapy Commons^™

Evaluating Forearm Strength Variability In Collegiate Tennis Players Over The Course Of A Competitive Season, Jeffrey Williams, Payton Jensen, Kevin Laudner

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

The muscles of the forearm undergo routine, forceful, and repetitive contractions while playing tennis and may experience adaptive changes that can precede injury. An understanding of forearm strength profiles of tennis players following a competitive season would assist clinicians’ evidence-based management of the forearm’s readiness for training, competition, and return-to-sport participation. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a competitive tennis season on forearm strength among collegiate tennis athletes. A prospective, case-series design was used to examine a convenience sample of 15 asymptomatic NCAA Division I tennis players (males = 10, height = 182.88 [SD …

Service Dogs As An Intervention To Improve Sleep: A Systematic Review, Yvonne Monti, Sara Kuiken, Anna Owens, Rachel Madden, Skyler Roote

People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice

Purpose: The use of service dogs as a holistic intervention has grown significantly in the past 10 years. Studies report positive impacts of service dogs on primary and secondary symptoms associated with various disabilities. Dysfunctional sleep is a common symptom among individuals receiving service dog assistance. This study investigates the efficacy of service dogs in improving co-occurring sleep dysfunction in handlers with various conditions.

Methods: A comprehensive search of Science Direct, ProQuest Psychology Journals, PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and 11 studies met inclusion criteria. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by …

Multi-Dimensional Research Appraisal: A Holistic Approach To Evidence-Informed Practice, John Damiao

Translational Science in Occupation

The field of occupational therapy (OT) and healthcare in general have made great strides in enhancing their scientific rigor through study methodologies that prioritize internal validity. However, concerns regarding reproducibility and replicability in research have cast doubt on traditional evidence-based models. This paper critically examines the limitations of an over-reliance on internal validity in evidence reviews and advocates for a multi-dimensional approach to evidence-based practice. By integrating methodological holism, contextual analysis, and a critical appraisal of external validity, this approach provides practitioners with a more nuanced and applicable framework for decision-making. The implications for research credibility and clinical confidence are …

Development And Validation Of A Life Participation Self-Assessment Tool For People Living With Obesity: The Life Participation Impact Questionnaire (Lpiq-O), Marie-Claude Touchette

Translational Science in Occupation

Purpose: Obesity is a chronic condition affecting over 40% of adults in the U.S. Given the well-documented impact of obesity on life participation, a comprehensive, population-specific assessment tool is needed. We aimed to establish the face and content validity of the Life Participation Impact Questionnaire for People with Obesity (LPIQ-O), an occupation-focused assessment tool measuring the impact of obesity on areas of life participation.

Method: This study included seven iterative phases: (a) literature review, (b) interviews, (c) synthesis of the literature review and interviews, (d) item development, (e) expert validation, (f) face validation, and (g) final expert review. Six participants …

Integration Of The Science Of Team Science (Scits) With Applied Healthcare Frameworks: Interprofessional Education Through A University-Based Head Injury Clinic, Part Ii: Mixed Methods, Emily Balog, Susan Paparella, Natalia Noce, Stephanie Hubbell, Kelly Pena

Translational Science in Occupation

Introduction: Effective healthcare delivery requires clinicians to function within high-performing, collaborative teams. To support this, interprofessional education (IPE) must provide opportunities that move beyond siloed training. This paper details the clinical application of a team science-informed educational intervention designed to prepare students for interprofessional practice (IPP) through a university-based head injury head injury clinic. Methods: The research team conducted a mixed methods case study with a convergent design to evaluate student outcomes. Eighteen graduate students from occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology participated in a 10-week clinic. Faculty delivered training in IPEC competencies, TeamSTEPPS® tools, and clinical processes before …

Editors' State Of The Journal: Making Academic Writing Accessible, Nicole Martino, Nancy E. Krusen, Stacy Smallfield

Translational Science in Occupation

No abstract provided.

Differences Between Genders Related To Perceived Knowledge Of And Attitudes Toward Lgbtia+ Persons Among Athletic Trainers, Brandon J. Warner, Julianne Goza, Meredith Decker, S. Andrew Cage

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Context: Previous literature reports that healthcare providers and student-athletes identifying as LGBTQIA+ encounter difficulties in their respective communities. A number medical professional associations have published statements affirming their commitment to providing access to patient-centered healthcare for LGBTQIA+ patients. Unfortunately, there is a lack of research related to the factors that influence perceived knowledge of and attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community among healthcare providers. More information on what factors impact perceived knowledge of and attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community would assist with creating interventions that improve perceived knowledge and attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community. The purpose of this study was to …

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Compared To Common Flexor Tendon Repair With Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: A Case Series, Amanda Dubois, Melissa Long

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is found in the medial aspect of the elbow joint capsule and is commonly injured in baseball pitchers. The common flexor tendon (CFT) is also found in the medial elbow and is less commonly injured. Both structures are key in overhead throwing, repaired via surgery, and injured due to valgus stress placed on the elbow. There is research on UCL injuries but very little on CFT injuries. There is not substantial research on the return to play protocol or rehabilitation process for either of these two structures after surgery. Patient Information: The patients for …

Sacroiliac Dysfunction In A Middle-Aged Female Runner: A Case Study, Blair Bradshaw

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Research has indicated an increased prevalence of low back pain (LBP) due to SIJ dysfunction, with some reports suggesting it is the main source of pain in 15- 30% of cases. Women are more prone to incidence of SIJ pain due to a wider, more uneven, less curved, and posteriorly rotated sacrum. Additionally, women have increased mobility at the SIJ which increases stress and shear loading. Repetitive loading such as running can further contribute to SIJ dysfunction. Research suggests that female runners with SIJ pain had common biomechanical patterns putting them at more risk for injury including decreased knee …

Sleep And Stress Experienced By Collegiate Baseball Players During A Fall Season, Andrew R. Gallucci, Katie M. Lee, Eric Rash, Jeremy A. Bigalke, Jason R. Carter

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: College students are notoriously poor sleepers due to academic and social demands. Collegiate athletes have additional athletic responsibilities that can also affect sleep. During a season, baseball players experience prolonged bouts of high intensity activity that increase the need for recovery and sleep. Athletes can also experience higher perceived stress levels, a factor also known to impact sleep. Reduced sleep quality and quantity during a competitive season can impede recovery and decrease performance. The present study sought to determine the relationships between sleep [Total Sleep Time (TST), Sleep Efficiency (SE), Sleep Onset Latency (SOL), Awakenings] and stress over a …

Awareness Of Native American Living Conditions Among Athletic Trainers, Laurel Trail, Brandon Warner, Rebecca Peebles, Robert French, Lynzi Warner, S. Andrew Cage

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Context: Native Americans and First Nations People have dealt with healthcare disparities that have been documented in previous studies. One factor that appears to have played a role in these disparities was the Indian Removal Act of 1851 which established the first Native American reservations. The foundation of these reservations led to many Native Americans being displaced from areas where the United States was establishing new population centers. This has led many individuals not understanding the conditions that Native Americans live in. Lack of knowledge of the conditions patients live in may negatively affect clinicians’ ability to provide optimal healthcare. …

Impressions And Gastrointestinal Tolerance Of An Electrolyte Hydration Beverage Among Individuals Participating In Collegiate Baseball, S. Andrew Cage, Alexander Jacobsen, Brandon Warner, Jessie Gibson, Derek Lege, Robert French

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Context: Performing physical activity in numerous environmental conditions often results in mild to moderate dehydration. Dehydration can be problematic for the physically active population, as it can lead to decreases in physical and cognitive performance. This places emphasis on making sure individuals are properly hydrated during exercise. One of the barriers to appropriate hydration behaviors that has been identified in physically active individuals is a dislike of available hydration options. This highlights the need for sports medicine professionals to provide physically active individuals with appealing hydration options. Currently there is a lack of research exploring the flavor appeal of hydration …

Extensor Hallucis Longus Focal Dystonia In A Patient With Parkinson’S Disease: A Case Study, Jessika Truax, Linda Bobo, Keilea Sumrall

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that affects a person’s ability to produce dopamine and control motion of the body. PD affects 1% of people over the age of 65, but the disease can occur earlier and later in life. The uncontrollable movement of any body part involved with PD is referred to as a tremor. Pathophysiology of PD causes the thalamus to have a decreased activation of the frontal cortex, thus decreased motor activity. Patients commonly have dystonia mostly in the foot resulting in striatal toe. Optional pain relief is a tenotomy of the extensor hallicus …

Breaking Barriers: Disparities Among Minority Collegiate Athletes In Concussion Reporting, Josette Villanueva, Melissa Long

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Concussions are a serious concern in sports medicine because of their potential long-term effects on cognitive and neurological health. However, many athletes, especially those from minority groups, hesitate to report symptoms due to fears of being sidelined, pressure to keep playing, and challenges like limited access to education, language barriers, and distrust in healthcare systems. The objective of this study was to investigate the barriers to concussion reporting among Division I collegiate athletes, with a particular focus on demographic differences, particularly racial and ethnic disparities. The goal was to identify key factors that hinder self-reporting and to propose strategies …

Hyoid Bone Fracture In A Division 1 Football Player: A Conservative Management Case Study, Kynnedy Louis, Andrew Crane, Mark Knoblauch, Layci Harrison

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: The hyoid bone plays an important role in speaking, swallowing, and supporting the tongue. Hyoid bone fractures account for 0.002% of all fractures and are typically seen in cases dealing with strangulations or a blunt force trauma such as occurs from vehicle accidents or martial arts injuries. Signs and symptoms of hyoid fractures can include dyspnea, pharyngeal tear, or subcutaneous emphysema, and if not recognized early can significantly damage the airway. Patient Information: A 23-year-old male collegiate football player sustained blunt trauma to the anterior part of his neck due to a tackle forcing the helmet chin strap against …

Overcoming Thoracic Outlet Syndrome In A Young Athlete: A Case Study, Cormia Lewis, Christina Fry, Mark Knoblauch, Layci Harrison

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a rare and complex condition caused by the compression of neurovascular structures in the thoracic outlet. TOS is estimated to affect 3 to 80 individuals per 1,000,000 annually, with neurogenic TOS accounting for approximately 95% of cases. Athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions are at higher risk due to increased stress on the brachial plexus. Diagnosis can be challenging as symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness, often mimic other conditions such as nerve entrapment or tendon pathologies. Treatment for TOS typically begins with a conservative approach, including postural correction and strengthening, activity modification, …

Differences Between Sexual Orientations Regarding Perceived Knowledge Of And Attitudes Toward Lgbtia+ Persons Among Athletic Trainers, Julianne Goza, S. Andrew Cage, Meredith Decker, Brandon J. Warner

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Context: LGBTQIA+ athletic trainers and patients encounter difficulties in their workplaces and sport communities. Several medical professional associations have produced statements claiming their commitment to fostering an patient-centered environment for healthcare for LGBTQIA+ patients. To date, there has been little research on the factors that impact perceived knowledge of and attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community among healthcare providers. With more information on what factors impact perceived knowledge of and attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community, better interventions for improving perceived knowledge and attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community could be created. The purpose of this study was to determine differences between sexual …

Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocation After Mpfl Repair With Subsequent Tibial Tubercle Anteromedialization And Concomiant Mpfl Reconstruction, Jacob Hardy, Anthony Thomas Drazick, Joshua Pratt, Jeremy M. Burnham

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Patellar instability is a common knee pathology, particularly among adolescents and young adults, with reported incidence rates ranging from 7 to 77 per 100,000 person-years. Following an initial patellar dislocation, recurrence rates have been reported as high as 86%, particularly in patients with underlying anatomic risk factors. Identification of the multifactorial contributors to patellar instability is critical to guide appropriate management and prevent recurrent episodes. Common pathoanatomic factors associated with recurrent instability include trochlear dysplasia, patella alta, lateralized tibial tubercle, coronal or torsional malalignment, and abnormal patellar shift. This case report describes a patient who presented with a chronic …

Performance On The Timed Single-Leg Step-Down Test Is Correlated With Hip And Knee Biomechanics As Measured By 3d Markerless Motion Capture, Ghislain Aminake, Anthony Drazick, Christ Focht, Chloe Roy, Emily Clark, Savannah Knighton, Edward Austin, Jeremy Burnham

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: The timed single-leg step-down (SLSD) test is widely used in clinical and sports settings to assess lower extremity function and injury risk, yet the specific biomechanical determinants of performance on this test remain poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between performance on the timed SLSD test and hip and knee biomechanics captured by a markerless 3-D motion-analysis system. Methods: Twenty (20) healthy high school athletes with no recent history of lower extremity injury completed a 60-second timed single leg step down test. The number of quality SLSD repetitions (REPS) constituted their SLSD score. …

Integrating Wearable Technologies Into Athletic Training: Bridging Innovation And Clinical Practice, Michael Douglas

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Athletic training is entering a transformative period driven by the convergence of wearable technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced biomechanical modeling. Historically, wearable technology in sport was primarily used for performance tracking, including workload monitoring, heart rate assessment, and movement quantification. However, advances in sensor accuracy and data analytics have expanded the clinical relevance of wearable systems, allowing athletic trainers to monitor fatigue markers, movement asymmetry, and neuromuscular control patterns that inform injury risk and rehabilitation progression. Wearable sensor technologies provide objective data that can support clinical decision-making when integrated with traditional evaluation methods.¹Despite these advancements, wearable technologies present persistent …

Improving Entry-Level Athletic Training Student Confidence In Emergency Care: A Pilot Study, Michele Pye, Cade Watts, John Hunt, Kimberly Pritchard

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Immediate and emergency care is essential to athletic training education and clinical practice. Athletic training students (ATS) may have limited exposure to emergencies during their clinical experiences, which can undermine their confidence. AT educators can improve ATS confidence and clinical reasoning using a simulation-based, learner-centered SNAPPS approach. SNAPPS consists of Summarizing the history and findings, Narrowing and Analyzing the differential diagnoses, Probing peers about uncertainties or confusion, Planning management, and Selecting case-related knowledge gaps for self-directed learning. This empowers students to control the learning environment while adding realism to encounters. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine …

Athletic Trainers’ Motivations For And Satisfaction With Transition To The Physician Practice Setting, Abigail G. Overstreet, Nicolette A. Harris, Cailee E. Welch Bacon

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

An increasing number of athletic trainers are transitioning from traditional settings, such as secondary schools, colleges, universities, and professional sports, to physician practice. Although research suggests athletic trainers may be changing settings in search of better working conditions, little is known about their motivations for and satisfaction with the setting transition. The objective of this research was to explore athletic trainers’ motivations for and satisfaction with transition to the physician practice setting. A qualitative design was used to collect and interpret data. Eleven certified athletic trainers (6 women, 5 men; age 1⁄4 38.5 6 10.0 years) who transitioned from a …

Trust, Culture, And Conversation: How Athletic Training Leaders Navigate High-Stakes Interactions, Nicole A. Wilkins, Ashley B. Thrasher, Ericka P. Zimmerman

Clinical Practice in Athletic Training

Introduction: Engaging in difficult conversations is central to leadership growth and requires sustained effort to refine and strengthen these skills. Leaders not only need to navigate the complexities of their role within an organization, but also the intersectionality of interpersonal dynamics, emotional intelligence, structural hierarchies, and the nuanced environments that influence how communication occurs. Furthermore, leaders must adapt to role expectations that shift across clinical, academic, and administrative contexts, adjusting their approach to engaging in conversations based on these complexities. As part of a larger research project examining difficult conversations, this portion of the study explored how leaders in athletic …

Telerehabilitation Program In Rural South India: A Mixed-Method Analysis Of The Shared-Decision Making Process, Sylvia Langlois, Caroline Eagles, Dinesh Krishna, Navamani Venkatachalapathy, Tim Bressmann, Franzina Coutinho

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: Shared decision making (SDM) in health care teams involves partnering with the patient and family to consider treatment options, prioritizing their values and preferences while collaboratively determining the best care plan. Previous research on SDM in rural South India has only focused on adult populations receiving in-person care. This study aimed to understand parent perception of the SDM approach implemented in telerehabilitation services offered by Amar Seva Sangam Ayikudy to children with disabilities in a rural Southern Indian setting. Methods: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was utilized. Quantitative data was collected from 187 participants using a SDM measure …

Social Skill Program Development For Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Clayton Stapert

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was completed at the Center for Disability Services (CDS) and focused on developing and implementing a social skills program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Many existing social skills programs focus on general or work-related skills, but there is a need for programs that help individuals apply social skills during real-life community activities. This project aimed to address that gap by creating a structured, occupation-based program within an adult day skill-building day center.

The program included education, group discussion, role-playing, and community outings to help participants practice skills such as interacting with cashiers, …

The Enduring Legacy Of Nuclear Tests: Barriers To Managing Type 2 Diabetes Among Marshallese Pacific Islanders In The United States, Bernard A. Muriithi

Occupational Therapy Faculty Scholarship

Introduction / Rationale: Nuclear tests conducted by the United States caused significant damage to the environment and traditional food sources in the Marshall Islands. The Marshall Islanders began to depend on imported processed food, but the change of diet resulted in significant increases in chronic diseases, in addition to cancers and birth defects associated with nuclear radiation. Since the 1986 Compact of Free Association, over 15,000 Marshallese have relocated to the United States, and the majority live in one U.S. state. This community of Marshallese has the highest prevalence rate for type 2 diabetes in the world.

Objectives: identify the …

Simulated Or Traditional Clinical Learning Environments: Comparison Survey To Assess Learner Preparation, Audrey Zapletal, Ms, Otd, Otr/L, Cla, Chse, Joanne Baird, Phd, Otr/L, Chse, Faota, Jean Prast, Otd, Otrl, Chse, Tracy Van Oss, Dhsc, Otr/L, Chse, Faota, Maureen Hoppe, Edd, Ma, Otr/L Chse, Ketki Raina, Phd, Otr/L, Faota

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Background

• Occupational therapy is a cornerstone rehabilitation profession that provides client-centered care for individuals experiencing a loss of independence at any age. 
• Over 90% of occupational therapy educational programs use simulation.⁶
• Research suggests that simulation can be used to prepare occupational therapy students for their full-time clinical placements.^1,5
• However, little is known about occupational therapy students' perceptions of the effectiveness of simulations compared to introductory clinical fieldwork experiences to enhance specific clinical skills.

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 …

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 …