Conceptual Model of the Field

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Debunking Misconceptions

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Occupational therapists care about  occupations--  it's in the name! Contrary to popular belief, however, occupations aren't merely vocational. In OT, an occupation is anything that takes up one's time. Occupations are things that we need, want, and are expected to do as we fulfill certain life roles. Often, these roles are extremely important to us and give us a sense of identity and purpose. Typing a blog post is a fun activity involved in one of my primary occupations,  completing assignments. Completing assignments  ties back to my role as an OT student. What are some occupations that are important to you?
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Biomechanics - Scapulohumeral Rhythm

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The shoulder complex is just like the name suggests-- complex! Functional movements of the arm and shoulder require the clavicle, scapula, and humerus to work together in a kinetic chain. If dysfunction occurs in one joint or body structure in the complex, the function and movement of the whole complex will suffer. This relationship is known as the "scapulohumeral rhythm" and specifically refers to the collaboration of the scapulothoracic and glenohumeral joints. For full range of motion to occur, the humeral head must remain in optimal alignment with the glenoid fossa (1). When reaching above the head, the scapula rotates upward to permit this alignment, as well as to maintain an optimal length-tension relationship among the abductor muscles (2). As the glenoid and humeral head remain in alignment, shear forces are decreased, reducing the risk of friction and associated pain (3). If the scapula does not upwardly rotate adequately, the subacromial space is limited, and the st...
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The Role of OT in Cancer-Related Cognitive Dysfunction

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Cancer-- a disease that discriminates against no age group, a leading cause of death in our country, a diagnosis that far too many people receive, a word that family members hate-- is very prevalent in our society. If you overcome this debilitating disease, you are considered a hero. After such an amazing accomplishment, very few people expect to encounter dysfunction months, years, and even decades post-cancer and cancer treatment. In a recent podcast episode, "Cancer-Related Cognitive Dysfunction," I learned about ongoing research in cancer survivors that suggests that cancer-related issues are not completely over after the last treatment session. Some of these issues include executive cognitive dysfunction in areas like word-finding, information-processing, management of appointments, and care of self and others. Socially, difficulty coming up with names and words, processing the words of others, and remembering important dates can negatively impact conversation and rela...
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