NeuroRehabilitation - Volume 15, issue 1

Authors: Zasler, Nathan D.

Article Type: Introduction

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-15101

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 1-1, 2000

Article Type: Abstract

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-15102

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 3-48, 2000

Authors: Zwick, Dalia | Rochelle, Alon | Choksi, Amee | Domowicz, Joe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The purpose of this review of outcome studies was to determine whether the Berg Balance Test (BBT) can be considered a reliable predictor of a risk for falls in the elderly, and to review the efficacy of Tai Chi Quan in the physical therapy intervention of balance disorders in older adults as reported in the literature. The authors examined studies of the BBT, which showed that the two groups of people, fallers and non-fallers, have considerable differences among them. Fallers tended to be more variable in their characteristics as indicated by larger standard deviations. Based on these results, the …authors suggest that patients who score high on the BBT should not be referred for further intervention, whereas patients who score 40 or less have a high probability of falls and require appropriate referrals. The BBT, which is relatively safe and simple, uses a quantitative scale, scoring is reproducible, and the strong internal consistency allows for easy interpretation of scores. The BBT has been shown to have moderately good sensitivity, and high specificity, and therefore is a good predictor of older adults who may have fall risks and may need assistive devices. A big challenge, then, is to plan and implement an effective treatment technique to improve balance control. One recently identified intervention is Tai Chi Quan. Tai Chi is an ancient form of exercise for fitness and the martial arts which has been practiced in China for centuries. The second part of this report examines the efficacy of Tai Chi Quan as a treatment modality. A review of studies on Tai Chi Quan indicates that it has a positive effect on improving balance in the elderly, although it has no effect on improving postural stability. The effects of Tai Chi on the treatment of balance still require extensive research. Although the articles reviewed indicate that Tai Chi does have a positive effect on balance, the methodology used in these studies needs to be improved. Show more

Keywords: Berg Balance Test, Tai Chi Quan, balance, falls, elderly people

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-15103

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 49-56, 2000

Authors: Toglia, Joan | Kirk, Ursula

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The critical role that awareness deficits play in contributing to rehabilitation outcome and independent functioning of brain injured adults is readily acknowledged by rehabilitation professionals. However, there are inconsistencies in the scope of what is included within the concept of awareness and the way in which it is measured within the literature. A comprehensive model of awareness is needed to guide the development of measurement tools and interventions. This paper expands upon concepts originally proposed by Crosson and colleagues [12] and proposes a comprehensive model of awareness that integrates parallel themes in cognitive psychology, social psychology and neuropsychology. It …argues that a hierarchical view of awareness does not capture the complexities and subtleties of awareness symptoms and proposes a dynamic relationship between knowledge, beliefs, task demands and context of a situation. A distinction between knowledge and awareness, that one has prior to a task, and that, which is activated during task performance, is emphasized. Suggestions for expanding assessment and intervention methodology are derived from the perspective of research within the areas of metacognition and self-efficacy. Show more

Keywords: self awareness, brain injury, metacognition, self-efficacy, assessment, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-15104

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 57-70, 2000

Authors: Wehman, Paul | Targett, Pam | Yasuda, Satoko | Brown, Tracey

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The highest incidence of TBI is among young adult males who also have the highest incidence of substance abuse [1]. Since these individuals have long life expectancies, it is important that they are productive post injury; however, the employment rate is extremely low. This is understandable, given the fact that a person with either a TBI or substance abuse disorder would have difficulties with work. Naturally, the combination of the two compounds the problem and further complicates matters. This article provides an overview of how a Supported Employment approach can be used to assist persons with a TBI and substance …abuse problems with returning to work. Show more

Keywords: Traumatic Brain Injury, substance abuse, alcohol abuse, supported employment

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-15105

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 71-77, 2000

Authors: Yates, M. | Bowen, A. | Mukhtar, N. | Hill, E. | Tallis, R.C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The trial of a treatment device for Unilateral Spatial Neglect (USN) is reported. A patient who had suffered a right hemisphere stroke that resulted in left sided neglect was studied over a six month period. The study involved the use of a customized electrical device providing stimulation to the neglected hand, triggered by movement of the unaffected side. A battery of neglect measures were performed regularly throughout the study period. Though the results were difficult to interpret, there was no conclusive evidence that the device was effective. The possible reasons for this, the methodological difficulties inherent in studies of this …type and suggestions for further studies are discussed. Show more

Keywords: neglect, stroke, stimulator, single-case

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-15106

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 79-85, 2000