Physical Therapy Commons^™

Relationships Among Isokinetic Knee Flexion And Extension Parameters, Three Functional Tests, And Subjective Knee Scores In Acl Reconstructed Patients, Laura Call, Sheryl Chandler

Masters Theses

The purposes of this study were: (1) to investigate the relationships between isokinetically tested quadriceps femoris and hamstring strength, the subjects' self-assessment of knee function, and three functional tests, and (2) to determine the strength and functional differences between the surgical and non-surgical limbs. Subjects included 18 males and 27 females aged 18 to 45 years who had undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Knee strength was measured at 180, 300, and 450{dollar}\sp\circ{dollar}/second and normalized to body weight, while functional hop data were normalized to height. Significant differences existed between limbs for the single, triple, and cross-over hops, and all, but …

A Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Two Modalities In The Treatment Of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, Kenneth Newland

Masters Theses

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of massage and light exercise in alleviating the signs and symptoms of DOMS. Fifteen male and female subjects were recruited. The subjects were divided into two groups. To obtain a DOMS response, each group performed eccentric exercise on a Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer to both arms. As treatment, one group (N = 7) received massage to one arm and light exercise in the form of upper body ergometry to the other arm. The other group (N = 8) received massage to one arm and light exercise in the form of supine …

The Effect Of Anterior Tibial Translation On Quadriceps Recruitment During An Isometric Squat, Natalie K. Howard, Penny P. Tussing

Masters Theses

The purpose of this study was to determine how closed chain anterior tibial translation (ATT) affected quadriceps femoris recruitment as evidenced by electromyography.; Forty-three healthy subjects performed a unilateral squat under two conditions: anterior tibial force (ATF) and no tibial force (NTF). Two adjustable-height pulleys produced ATF by each pulling with ten percent of body weight in opposite directions on the proximal tibia and distal femur. Electromyographic (EMG) activity of the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, and vastus lateralis was monitored using surface electrodes. Percentage change in EMG area between the two squat conditions was averaged across all subjects and muscles. …

The Physical Therapist's Role In Sexual Education Of People With Spinal Cord Injury During Inpatient Rehabilitation, Karen Ellexson

Masters Theses

The purpose of this study was to explore the physical therapist's role in sexual education of spinal cord injured patients during inpatient rehabilitation. Descriptive data were collected by questionnaire from 72 licensed physical therapists working in CARF accredited inpatient spinal cord injury units. The results indicated that although therapists rated sexual education as an important and appropriate topic in physical therapy, they addressed sexual issues only 46% of the time and initiated these discussions only 30% of the time. Significant correlation was present between the frequency of addressing and initiating discussions of sexuality and the therapists' preparedness and comfort level …

The Effect Of Verbal Commands On Muscle Performance, Lisa M. Marichal, Molly K. Veen

Masters Theses

The purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship exists between voice command intensity and maximum torque production of an isometric muscle contraction. Thirty nine healthy subjects ranging in age from 18-30 participated in this study. The maximum torque production of triceps brachii was measured using a Cybex II+ isokinetic dynamometer in response to varied, tape recorded voice commands. Data was analyzed by a series of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) for an unbalanced incomplete-block crossover trial design. No significance was found between voice intensity and peak torque. Gender was found to impact torque …

Use Of Gum Chewing And Electromyography In The Conservative Treatment Of Unilateral Masseter Muscle Hyperactivity, Marc F. Maday, Ben Rentfrow, Nathan T. Tear

Masters Theses

It is estimated that up to 10% of the American public has some form of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), of whom perhaps 5% may seek or need treatment. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that chewing gum for 5 minutes on the involved side at levels less than maximal contraction will decrease resting muscle tone in the masseter muscle as demonstrated through surface electromyography.; This study examined 40 normal subjects as well as 6 people diagnosed with TMD. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in masseter output after the intervention as measured by EMG in …

Trauma Rehabilitation Of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Physical Therapy Perspective In The Management Of Muscular Complications, Heterotopic Ossification, And Skin Breakdown, Erin N. Sabe

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is any combination of focal and/or diffuse central nervous system dysfunction, both immediate and delayed, at the brainstem level and above. The dysfunctions, which, are not developmental or degenerative, are due to the interaction of any external forces and the body, violent movements of the body, infection, toxicity, surgery, and non-age related vascular disorders. In the United States, TBI has reached epidemic proportions and is the leading killer and cause of disability in children and young adults.

The TBI survival rate is increasing due to life-saving technology. Survivors will face extensive rehabilitation services, which have been …

A Comparison Study Of Cervical Range Of Motion Between Unilateral Breathers And Bilateral Breathers In Collegiate Swimmers During Freestyle Swimming, Nadine K.M. Takai

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a difference in cervical rotation between unilateral breathers and bilateral breathers for freestyle swimmers. The sample consisted of 44 (23 males, 21 females) University of North Dakota Varsity swim team members. Among the swimmers there were 19 bilateral breathers, 21 right unilateral, and 4 left unilateral breathers. The CROM device was the tool used to measure cervical rotation. An ANOVA analysis showed no significant difference in right rotation (p=.6585) and total rotation (p=.0693) for any breathing style, however a significant difference existed for left rotation (p=.0078) between bilateral and …

The Effect Of Intraarticular Injection Of Morphine Following Knee Arthroscopy, Chandel Dietz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Postoperative pam IS common following knee arthroscopy and has been typically controlled with opioids, the most popular of which is morphine. Morphine has been traditionally administered by intramuscular, intravenous, or epidural injections. These methods of administering morphine have been very effective in producing prolonged analgesia; however, they have also produce negative central nervous system side effects.

Recent research has suggested administering morphine via intraarticular injections to provide postoperative analgesia without the central nervous system side effects. However, there is little evidence to suggest that this method is effective. Therefore, the purposes of this randomized, double-blinded study were to 1) investigate …

Concentric And Eccentric Isokinetic Normative Ratio Values Of The Quadriceps Muscle In Asymptomatic Knee Subjects, Donna Ho

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Technological advances in isokinetic devices allow the clinician to objectively assess and rehabilitate injuries using concentric and eccentric contractions at different speeds. The purpose of this research project is to establish concentric and eccentric normative ratio values of the quadriceps muscle on the Kinetic Communicator (Kin-Com, Chattecx Corp., Chattanooga, TN) dynamometer. A sample of 19 females and 12 males aged 20-38 (mean for females = 24.32 ± 3.87, mean for males = 27.67 ± 5.80) were tested on the KinCom for maximum concentric and eccentric torque values during knee extension using a 70° range of motion at 90 and 1200/sec. …

An Electromyographic Study Of Back And Lower Extremity Muscle Activity During Plyopress Exercises, A Squat Lift, And A Vertical Jump, Melissa K. James

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The ongoing research in the evolution of athlete training continues to reveal new principles and training designs which strive to heighten athletic performance and maximize athletic ability. One example of the application of such research is the Plyo Press machine, a patented device used in the Frappier Acceleration Program for athletes. This device was specifically designed to combine strength training with plyometrics to enhance speed and dynamic muscle activity without the excessive low back stress of traditional training methods.

As the Plyo Press has been recently designed and incorporated into training programs, no research has yet been conducted on the …

Applications Of Iontophoresis And Phonophoresis, Craig Hahn

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Many different drugs are used topically for treatment by the medical field. The benefit of some of these drugs can be enhanced by the use of ultrasound (phonophoresis) or electric current (iontophoresis). These methods have been used for many years by such disciplines as ophthalmology, dermatology, dentistry as well as physical therapy. With the inherent risks of blood borne pathogens, these methods are a great alternative to the injection of drugs into the system.

The purpose of this paper is to review the literature regarding iontophoresis and phonophoresis and present the results as a guide for the practicing physical therapist. …

Patellofemoral Joint Mechanics And Their Clinical Relevance, William S. Hokanson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Patellofemoral joint dysfunction is a common ailment affecting one in four of the general population and 30% of the athletic population. Patellofemoral dysfunction may stem from a number of different clinical diagnoses. The most common of these is chondromalacia patella. The term chondromalacia patella, however, refers only to a softening or fissuring of the retropatellar surface of the patella and cannot be used to diagnose all patellofemoral pain. Clinical diagnosis is sometimes very difficult because these patients present with a number of vague and nonspecific signs and symptoms.

The purpose of this literature review is to offer a clear, concise …

The Effects Of Velocity On Force Production Of The Elbow Flexors During Eccentric Isokinetic Muscle Contraction, Tracie Hildre

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The traditional eccentric force-velocity curve illustrates a continuous increase in muscle force production as velocity increases. Recently, this curve has been scrutinized by some researchers who have found a plateau or decline in eccentric force production at the higher velocities. The purpose of this study was to examine the eccentric isokinetic force-velocity curve of the elbow flexor muscles over a broad range of velocities to observe whether it follows the traditional force-velocity curve.

Fourteen healthy female and six healthy male volunteers were tested using. the Kinetic Communicator Dynamometer at velocities of 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, and 210 degrees …

A Wrist And Cervical Screening Of Grand Forks City Employees: A Pilot Study, William D. Jr. Kukuk

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) developed at work are caused by repetitive movements or sustained postures. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and Cervical Radiculopathy (CR) are both CTDs resulting from repetitive wrist movements and sustained cervical postures respectively. Although both conditions can present with similar symptoms in the exact same hand and finger location, there has been no research comparing the prevalence of CTS and CR symptoms in a given population.

The purpose of this study was to identify hand and finger symptoms and correlate the severity of the symptoms with objective measures. Thirty employees of the City of Grand Forks, ND, …

Vestibular Disorders And Rehabilitation, Stephanie Ann Jones

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The management of patients with vestibular disorders is a formidable problem. Many individuals present to their physician with symptoms of loss of balance and dizziness. A major contributor to sustaining proper upright balance, the vestibular system, consists of a complex network of fluid-filled canals and organs which aid in orientation of the head to vertical and provide information on head movements. The vestibular system is also involved in the sensation and perception of motion and position. Peripheral vestibular dysfunctions, which involve the vestibular organs and/or nerve, can produce a variety of signs and symptoms.

Physical therapy is a key discipline …

Cardiac Rehabilitation: Patient Recall Of Exercise Guidelines And Implications For Physical Therapists, Mary Jones

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The efficacy of a cardiac rehabilitation program depends on adequate patient compliance. Patients with coronary heart disease and those recovering from heart surgery may have a successful recovery from acute episodes of myocardial infarction or following operation. It must be recognized that they may require long-term supervision and support. The purpose of this study was to identify if diagnosis of myocardial infarction or heart surgery was a determinant of compliance with exercise guidelines once a patient has graduated from a level II cardiac rehabilitation program. A retrospective chart audit was performed for the years 1991-1994. A data sheet was used …

An Overview In The Ergonomics Of An Office Computer Workstation, James H. Matetich

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Ergonomics is an applied science concerned with adapting a workplace environment to match the capabilities of a worker and ensure the worker's safety. The study of ergonomics is one of increasing interest to American business. Specifically, the ergonomics of the office computer workstation has come under growing scrutiny due to a tremendous rise in the reported incidence of work related injuries. Workers, in this work environment, appear to be at a greater risk of injuries to the back, neck, shoulder, forearm, wrist, hand, and leg. These injuries, classified as cumulative trauma disorders or CTDs, can be attributed to ergonomic hazards …

A Review Of Treatment Methods For Patients With Patellofemoral Pain, Kristi Minter

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

There have been many therapeutic methods proposed for the treatment of patellofemoral pain, but there still remains some question as to which of these options is most beneficial to the patient. There are many steps to follow in order to find the most effective treatment method for an individual suffering from patellofemoral pain syndrome.

This paper is a review of the literature regarding patellofemoral pain syndrome. The paper begins with a discussion of the anatomy of the patellofemoral joint. Etiological factors of this common syndrome are also presented as well as the clinical presentation of this patient population. The focus …

Polypharmacy And Physical Therapy In The Geriatric Population, Cathy A. Reuer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Physical therapists are seeing more and more elderly individuals with acute, chronic, or multiple disease conditions. Many of these conditions are treated with medications. It is common for the geriatric patient to be taking multiple medications. Polypharmacy is a relevant concern for physical therapists as adverse effects are often revealed in the musculoskeletal and central nervous systems. These manifestations can cause adverse effects in evaluation, treatment, and outcomes.

The purpose of this study is to discuss the common non-prescription and prescription medications consumed by the elderly, describe the biologic and physiologic changes that occur with age and how these changes …

An Overview Of The Prescription Of Orthotics For Abnormal Subtalar Joint Pronation, Kari Rafteseth

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The foot and ankle are a complex set of joints that are susceptible to various types of dysfunction, including abnormal subtalar joint pronation. An option for treatment of this problem that may be used is the prescription of orthotics. An orthotic is used to assist the foot in functioning properly and to prevent damage due to malalignment.

In this literature review, the anatomy and biomechanical function of the subtalar joint are discussed. The structure of the other joints of the foot and ankle are also mentioned. Several etiologies of abnormal pronation are discussed. In addition, changes in structure and function …

Sacroiliac Joint: An Overview, Cheryl Walker

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Low back pain is a common cause of limitation in daily activities. Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction is often an overlooked cause of low back pain. The biomechanics of the SIJ is not well understood. There is controversy about how much movement is in the joint, but it is generally agreed that movement does occur. There are six ligaments in the SIJ that add to its stability and no muscles that act directly on the joint. SIJ dysfunction can be caused by direct trauma, indirect trauma, pregnancy, or muscle imbalances. Evaluation of the SIJ should include subjective and objective information. The …

Subtalar Joint Biomechanics, Tom L. Baumgartner

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Subtalar joint movement is transmitted proximally to the lower extremity and distally to the forefoot during gait. Thus, the entire lower kinetic chain is influenced by abnormal subtalar joint biomechanics. If the subtalar joint is forced to compensate for structural deformities of the foot and leg, various lower extremity injuries are likely to develop. The purpose of this study is to examine the normal and abnormal biomechanics of the subtalar joint. In the process, the clinician will be able to identify various subtalar joint abnormalities and relate these to their respective lower kinetic chain pathologies. By correctly assessing the cause …

Physical Therapy Interventions For Falls In The Elderly, Melanie Benson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The elderly in America represent a population that is continually growing. As part of the aging process, various changes occur that contribute to falls. Therefore, as the number of elderly people in America increases, the possibility of falls in the elderly also increases.

The consequences of falls in the elderly are significant. Some of the more serious consequences include functional decline, increased medical cost, and death. Therefore, the scope of the problem is clear; strategies to prevent falls and treat those who have fallen are indicated.

The purpose of this independent study is to review the literature pertaining to falls …

Functional Electrical Stimulation As A Treatment For Spinal Cord Injuries, Gail Garrett

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Injury of the spinal cord resulting in quadriplegia or paraplegia IS one of the most devastating conditions a person can experience. The majority of these individuals that suffer from a spinal cord injury are young males. The inability to ambulate is generally a major concern for these patients, but there are also degenerative and deconditioning effects of the spinal cord injury which may lead to devastating secondary complications that must be addressed.

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been the subject of much research concerning the rehabilitation for patients with spinal cord injury. Functional electrical stimulation is a way to activate …

Shoulder Pain And Subsequent Loss Of Function In Hemiplegic Patients, Kari A. Goetz

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Hemiplegia, caused by a stroke, is one of the most common disorders in which physical therapists are extensively involved in the rehabilitation process. When a stroke occurs, there is damage to the higher centers of the central nervous system resulting in neurologic, unilateral impairment or hemiplegia. The upper extremity is frequently involved and many patients complain of pain, particularly in the shoulder. Etiology and treatment of hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) is a challenging symptom that interferes with progressive rehabilitation and the overall quality of life of many patients.

The purpose of this study was to discuss HSP and the subsequent …

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Physical Therapy Implications And Treatment Strategies, Mary L. Emerson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) describes physical and neurological (motor, cognitive, and behavioral) deficits that result from maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy. FAS is the leading cause of mental retardation and birth defects in the U.S., ahead of spina bifida, fragile X syndrome, and down's syndrome. The incidence of FAS increased more than three-fold from 1979 to 1992; this increasing incidence rate, enhances the importance of the Physical Therapists' role in early recognition and intervention of FAS. A review of current F AS research studies, reveals a need for additional resource information on FAS, regarding implications for Physical Therapy and possible …

The Adverse Effects Of Long-Term Corticosteroid Use, Jennifer Ann. Johnston

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Corticosteroids are an often prescribed anti-inflammatory medication. They are used to treat disease processes of every system of the body. Those disease processes or procedures for which corticosteroids are often prescribed are cancer, bone marrow transplants, collagenous diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus), rheumatoid arthritis, leukemia, and anemia.

However, despite the therapeutic benefits of corticosteroids, many adverse effects are possible. Gastrointestinal difficulties, steroid myopathy, hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, impaired cellular immunity, decreased neuropsychological functioning, and avascular necrosis are just a few of the possible adverse effects.

Patients receiving corticosteroids will often be seen by physical therapists for either their primary or secondary diagnoses. Physical …

The Lateral Scapular Slide Test: Is It Valid In Detecting Glenohumeral Impingement Syndrome?, Denise G. Litchfield

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Recent literature has focused on instability of the scapulothoracic joint and on resulting scapular positions. Weakness of the scapular musculature can allow the scapula to slide laterally, leading to abnormal glenohumeral biomechanics and to subsequent shoulder pathology. Kibler1 has described the lateral scapular slide test (LSST) as a method of measuring lateral translation of the scapula. A significant difference between right and left scapular positions, as indicated by a discrepancy of greater than one centimeter side-to-side, may indicate functional scapulothoracic instability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate validity of the LSST, measured in two positions. Modified LSST measurements …

Musicians And Performance Related Injuries To The Hand, Leona Pang

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Musicians spend a great amount of energy and time preparing for auditions, competitions, performances, and recitals. The process of developing techniques and learning musical pieces requires practice sessions filled with long hours of repeating musical passages and awkward upper extremity positions. Performance related injuries often result from these conditions. Injuries include joint disorders, musculotendinous disorders, muscle cramps and pain disorders, neurological disorders, and focal dystonia or occupational palsy disorders. Pain, numbness, tingling, muscle cramping, and motor dysfunctions are associated symptoms. If symptoms are ignored and intense performance is continued, the musician can experience tissue damage and permanent loss of function. …