Research Activities

January 2022 - May 2022

Massage Therapy Techniques in Pediatric Occupational Therapy: Application and Benefits for Children with Common Disabilities

Literature review: Massage therapy and occupational therapy are common methods of treatment in health care. Pediatric populations specifically benefit from therapeutic applications of massage and interventions from occupational therapy. The treatment goals of both practices include increasing independence and quality of life. Common disabilities of the pediatric population include sensory processing disorder, down syndrome and cerebral palsy. These disabilities are often treated by massage therapists and occupational therapists alike but there is not often collaboration concerning treatment despite the many benefits of each application of therapy. Physician referral of massage therapy and continued educations for occupational therapist in massage techniques should be encouraged for optimal functional improvements in the pediatric population.

June 2022 - Current

Retrospective study with ISU Early Childhood Center:

Identify an improvement in the recognition of maladaptive behaviors in children as being a form of a sensory processing need. This change will be the effect of a training and educational program given to caregivers, parents and teachers that prepares them with skills to help their children manage their behaviors.