Articles tagged with Occupational Therapy
A new study found that stroke survivors struggle to discuss their sexuality and intimacy with healthcare professionals, who rarely address the topic during rehabilitation. The review highlights the importance of proper support from health and rehabilitation professionals to address these issues.
A University of Southern California-led research study demonstrates occupational therapy's value in improving blood glucose levels, diabetes-related quality of life, and habits among young adults with diabetes. The REAL Diabetes program, a manual-guided intervention, showed significant improvements after six months.
A new study examining occupational licensing contradicts decades of research, finding that licensure may rigidify reward structures and enhance entry for historically disadvantaged groups. The study reveals that licenses do not limit competition or increase wages, but rather stagnate quality and widen wage inequality.
A new study by Midwestern University found that physical and occupational therapists are at increased risk of contracting CMV due to lack of knowledge on prevention methods. The study highlights the need for educational initiatives to address the knowledge gap among these healthcare professionals.
Intento's device enables stroke patients to self-administer electrical stimulation, improving mobility and performing basic tasks. 70% of patients showed significant improvement in motor functions compared to conventional therapy.
A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that in-home occupational therapy significantly reduces the severity of depression in patients with central vision loss. The therapy, which includes training on daily activities like cooking and reading, is more effective than supportive therapy in improving mental health outcomes.
A randomized trial involving 180 Alzheimer's patients found that occupational therapy did not slow the loss of physical function, despite tailored to individual patient needs. The results underscore the burden on caregivers and highlight the need for additional support strategies, such as home modifications and assistive devices.
A Johns Hopkins pilot program proves safe and effective in reducing sedation and boosting early mobility for children in intensive care units. The PICU Up! Early Rehabilitation and Progressive Mobility Program includes activities such as sitting, standing, and walking, resulting in increased rates of physical therapy consultations and ...
A recent study published in JAMA Network found that a structured task-oriented rehabilitation program did not result in better motor function or recovery after 12 months for patients with moderate upper extremity impairment following a stroke. The study suggested that more than doubling the dose of therapy does not lead to meaningful d...
Researchers from the University of Birmingham conducted a trial finding that physiotherapy and occupational therapy do not improve 'activities of daily living' in patients with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that resources should be reallocated towards more effective treatments.
A large clinical trial conducted on patients with mild to moderate Parkinson disease found no clinically meaningful benefits from physiotherapy and occupational therapy. The study included over 762 patients who were randomly assigned to receive these therapies or no treatment.
A new study describes the benefits of an active post-discharge intervention program for patients who have undergone thoracic surgery. The program resulted in shorter hospital stays, fewer emergency room visits, cost savings, and no increase in adverse outcomes.
The University of Huddersfield is a key centre for research and teaching on spirituality in healthcare, with a focus on its practical application. Research has shown that spirituality can improve resilience, patient experience, and recovery outcomes in healthcare.
A new study led by Dr. Barry Rovner shows that a type of rehabilitation therapy can cut the risk of depression from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in half. The therapy, called behavior activation, helps people focus on activities they enjoy and maintain an active social life to reduce disability and prevent clinical depression.
A new study by ETH Zurich researchers shows that robotic therapy outperforms conventional physiotherapy in improving sensory-motor function and arm mobility. Robot-assisted therapy enables patients to carry out exercises independently and motivates them via computer game elements, leading to better results in terms of mobility.
Researchers found that occupational therapy using sensory integration (OT-SI) provided better outcomes than standard care for children with autism. OT-SI therapy helps improve processing of sensation, leading to better participation in everyday activities.
A study presented at the Canadian Stroke Congress reveals that rehabilitation robots can detect post-stroke impairments more accurately than traditional methods. The robots improve detection of limb position, speed, and movement direction, enabling personalized therapy and treatment plans to remap the brain and restore function.
Case studies published in the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation show Apple iPod Touch PDAs as effective vocational supports for adults with autism spectrum disorder. The device provides strategies to help individuals with ASD function more successfully in the workplace, including task reminders, lists, and video prompts.
A study found that group yoga significantly improved balance in stroke survivors, even after six months post-stroke. The yoga program included modified postures, relaxation, and meditation, and showed clinically meaningful improvements.
A new study published by the American Heart Association finds that group yoga can significantly improve balance in chronic stroke survivors. The research suggests that yoga may be a cost-effective and effective way to improve motor function and quality of life for these individuals.
A new study from the University of Haifa identifies developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in children through a simple writing task, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment. Children with DCD struggle with motor coordination, leading to difficulties in everyday tasks like dressing and typing.
A USC study shows that small, daily changes to a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve quality of life for seniors. The trial involved over 200 participants aged 60+, who made sustainable changes such as visiting museums or taking public transportation, resulting in lower rates of depression and improved overall well-being.
Researchers found that successfully treating post-stroke depression leads to significant improvements in functional capabilities, enabling patients to return to work and enjoy leisure activities. This study highlights the importance of screening for and managing depression in stroke patients to restore lost function.
Researchers found that functional electrical stimulation (FES) therapy worked better than conventional occupational therapy alone to increase patients' ability to pick up and hold objects. FES therapy also improved daily activities such as dressing and eating, with significant implications for quality of life and independence.
Research shows that robotic therapy combined with standard rehabilitation can significantly improve upper extremity function in patients after stroke. The study involved 60 stroke survivors who received either robotic therapy or a standard self-training program for six weeks, resulting in improved scores on measures of voluntary arm mo...
Researchers are conducting a national study to assess whether a targeted rehabilitation approach can aid stroke patients in leaving their homes more confidently. The study will compare outcomes of volunteer patients receiving the intervention with those not receiving it, aiming to improve physical capabilities and boost confidence.
Researchers identified areas for improvement in healthcare facilities' navigation systems, including signage, facility maps, and oral communication. The study's findings emphasize the importance of health literacy and suggest steps for healthcare providers to take to increase patient understanding.
A randomized trial of 100 ICU patients found that daily mobilization and sedative interruption improved functional status and reduced delirium at hospital discharge. Nearly 60% of early mobilization patients achieved independence, compared to only one third in the control arm.
Critically ill patients who received early physical and occupational therapy had better functional outcomes, shorter ICU delirium duration, and more ventilator-free days compared to standard care. This study highlights the benefits of whole-body rehabilitation in improving survival and recovery for critically ill patients.
A new study by Dr. Navah Ratzon found that amateur athletes are at risk of musculoskeletal problems due to the intensity and repetitive movements involved in their sport. To prevent such damage, experts advise incorporating stretching, balancing exercises, and proper rest into daily routines.
A study from Temple University found that sensory integration therapy significantly reduced autistic mannerisms in children, leading to improved behavior and learning outcomes. The treatment enabled children to better regulate their responses to sensations and situations, making self-care and classroom activities more manageable.
A study by Medical College of Georgia found that occupational therapy using Nintendo Wii can slow disease progression, decrease medication needs, and increase function in Parkinson's patients. The therapy helps participants improve daily activities like dressing, walking, and fine motor skills.
A University of Missouri-Columbia study shows that complementary methods like acupressure, modifications, and relaxation techniques can complement conventional treatment for chronic pain. By providing patients with more control over their pain management, these approaches can alleviate side effects and improve overall well-being.
Dr. Kevin Groark's paper explores the cultural significance of dreaming in the Tzotzil Maya community, contrasting with Western perspectives on dream responsibility.
A personalized program of occupational and physical therapy, combined with home modifications, has been shown to improve daily living tasks and increase survival rates among the elderly. The six-month intervention helped participants build confidence, use effective coping strategies, and make their homes safer.
Researchers found that using a low-level heat wrap therapy (CLHT) for three consecutive days significantly reduced pain intensity and improved pain relief, with benefits maintained in the follow-up period. The study showed CLHT to be a safe and effective alternative for treating acute low back pain.
Researchers found that simulated games in virtual reality boosted children's belief in their abilities, regardless of their physical limitations. The therapy also gave them a chance to succeed in types of play they might have difficulty accessing otherwise.
A survey of injured workers found that many felt pressured to return to work quickly, leading to high levels of stress and depression. Experts recommend improving communication between employers and employees, providing counseling services, and ensuring modified work is suitable.
A USC study found that preventive occupational therapy significantly improves quality of life and reduces medical costs for seniors. The study involved three groups of culturally diverse adults over 60, with the intervention group showing marked improvements in physical and emotional well-being without increasing healthcare costs.
A study suggests that robot-assisted sensorimotor therapy can help stroke survivors recover movement abilities years later. The robot exercises patients' limbs and rebuilds nerve pathways from the brain to the injured limb, leading to improved movement abilities.
A study confirms that preventive occupational therapy can aid older persons in staying healthier and more independent. The research found that participants who received individualized treatment by an occupational therapist sustained 90% of therapeutic improvements after six months of non-intervention.
A new technique called constraint-induced movement (CIM) therapy has been shown to improve motor functions in stroke patients, even after 14 days. CIM therapy encourages use of the impaired arm and has been found to improve overall arm strength and coordination.