Date of Award
2008
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Sonia Zimmerman
Keywords
Complementary Therapies; Pain Management
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine can fit into the occupational therapy practice framework to prepare chronic pain patients for participation in occupational performance. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies can be used preparatory to the therapy process or as treatment modalities in their own right.
A comprehensive literature review explores the use and efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine associated with chronic pain diagnoses seen by occupational therapists. Massage, yoga, biofeedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy, Feldenkrais, and Pilates are all techniques that can be utilized by occupational therapists. However, Pilates and Feldenkrais methods are used less frequently by occupational therapists, possibly due to the extensive training required for both. The literature review serves as a foundation for the Evidence-based Review of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Occupational Therapy Chronic Pain Intervention, which will be useful to occupational therapists wishing to incorporate these methods into interventions that will help their clients. The research indicates that CAM therapies have grown over the past decade. Furthermore, research supports the use and efficacy of these therapies. The Evidence-based Review of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Occupational Therapy Chronic Pain Intervention presents the research evidence in a tabular format designed to assist occupational therapists in learning about the selected therapies from an evidence-based perspective. In addition, the product is designed to help them to incorporate efficacious therapies into their practice settings on a wider scale.
Recommended Citation
Keffeler, Cheryl A., "Achieving Positive Benefits for Chronic Pain: Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Occupational Therapy" (2008). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 243.
https://commons.und.edu/ot-grad/243