The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
The benefits of group occupational therapy for patients with Parkinson's disease.
The medical treatment of idiopathic Parkinson's disease has improved the quality of life and increased survival of patients with Parkinson's disease. However, as the illness progresses, impairments in daily living activities occur. ⋯ The results showed that the subjects of the treated experimental group maintained their functional status after 1 year, demonstrated a significant decrease of bradykinesia, and perceived a significant improvement in their psychological well-being. This study confirms the value of an occupational therapy group approach and its benefits to the functional independence, to the improvement of physical and motor symptoms, and to the quality of life of persons with Parkinson's disease.
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Patients with low back pain are among the largest group of health care consumers today. During an episode of acute back pain the patient may be hospitalized for diagnostic workup and medical management, processes to which occupational therapists can contribute. The occupational therapist's evaluation includes assessment of the patient's activities of daily living and understanding of back protection and pain behaviors. ⋯ Instruction is provided in proper body mechanics, anatomy of the spine, work simplification, relaxation, and adaptive methods of performing daily activities. Given the short hospitalization period, outpatient follow-up may be provided to facilitate the application of information learned in the hospital to home and work settings. The goal of occupational therapy is to help the patient with low back pain return to a productive life-style.
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Development of a painful shoulder in the hemiplegic patient is a significant and serious problem, because it can limit the patient's ability to reach his or her maximum functional potential. Several etiologies of shoulder pain have been identified, such as immobilization of the upper extremity, trauma to the joint structures, including brachial plexus injuries, and subluxation of the gleno-humeral joint. ⋯ This knowledge is essential for the occupational therapist to evaluate effectively techniques used to treat the patient with hemiplegic shoulder pain. More effective management of this problem will facilitate the patient's ability to reach his or her maximum functional potential.