Paul Finch - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Paul Finch

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2011

Previous work (Finch, 2008) reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented s... more Previous work (Finch, 2008) reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system of performance intervention zones (PIZ), which was used in the assessment of internationally educated massage therapists. The study reported in this paper explores the usefulness and impact of the system as experienced by the evaluators involved in the diagnostic assessment. Method: This exploratory research was of a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual semi-structured interviews with evaluators who used the performance intervention zone system during the diagnostic assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in Ontario. After obtaining informed consent, interviews were taped, transcribed and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and recommendations regarding future use and development of the system. Results: Analysis revealed four themes within the data. These were that the performance intervention zone system 1) enhanced the confidence of examiners in their ability to conduct the comprehensive clinical examination effectively, 2) assisted and improved examiner decision making during the examination, 3) was a useful aid to communication regarding candidate performance, and 4) could be improved by clarifying the nature of intervention and implementing more extensive examiner training prior to the examination. Conclusion: The performance intervention zone system was found to be useful in orienting examiners to the evaluation process, in supporting decision making during the comprehensive clinical evaluation and as an aid to communication in the post-examination review of

The Foot

Chronic shin splints is a clinical presentation which is frequently encountered in a variety of p... more Chronic shin splints is a clinical presentation which is frequently encountered in a variety of practice settings. Although the term is a common one, it is often used non-specifically, indicating a generic clinical scenario as opposed to a definitive diagnosis. The intent of this paper is to present a review of the specific diagnoses clustered under the umbrella of chronic shin splints and to highlight certain diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Consideration is then given to the associated management principles and treatment alternatives are suggested.

International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, 2011

International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, Jan 19, 2009

In previous research, the motivation of massage therapy students was observed to change between c... more In previous research, the motivation of massage therapy students was observed to change between commencement of their professional studies and entry into practice. The change involved a decrease in intrinsic motivation (associated with altruism) and an increase in extrinsic motivation (associated with the prospect of external rewards). This paper reports on the influences underlying those changes. The research used a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual in-depth semi-structured interviews with massage therapy graduates, just after completion of a 2-year (2200-hour) full-time program. After informed consent was obtained, interviews were taped, transcribed, and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and subthemes. Previously noted changes in student motivation involved an increase in the influence of extrinsic rewards and a decrease in motivation related to helping and working with people. The findings of the present study ...

International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, Jan 20, 2008

Education for health (Abingdon, England), 2007

The study was conducted in order to determine whether the level of motivation related to intrinsi... more The study was conducted in order to determine whether the level of motivation related to intrinsic (people-oriented) and extrinsic (external reward) value complexes in a class of massage therapy students changed during their professional education. The research was a quasi-experimental within-subject design, in which survey data was collected from students on their first day in the massage therapy program and again towards the end of their final term. The data were collated and summarized, and the differences in motivation scores were assessed using Fisher's Least Significant Difference procedure. The results support the hypothesis that massage therapy students are motivated more strongly by intrinsic than extrinsic rewards both at the commencement of their studies and as they approach entry to practice. Also evident from the data is the fact that the students' motivation changed during their professional studies. This change involved a significant decrease in the level of i...

The Foot, 1999

... 652–673. 33 PW Brand and JD Ebner, Pressure sensitive devices for denervated hands and feet. ... more ... 652–673. 33 PW Brand and JD Ebner, Pressure sensitive devices for denervated hands and feet. ... 46 TG Mcpoil, MW Cornwall and W. Yamada, A comparison of two in-shoe plantar pressure ... 58 RN Battista and MJ Hodge, The development of health care technology assessment. ...

Medical Teacher, 2004

In Ontario massage therapy is a regulated health profession, and it has been speculated that mass... more In Ontario massage therapy is a regulated health profession, and it has been speculated that massage therapy students are motivated primarily by altruistic values, as has been documented in medicine. Students at Sutherland-Chan School and Teaching Clinic in Ontario were surveyed regarding their motivation to enter massage therapy education, with the intention of assessing the influence of certain value complexes on their decision. The results indicate that their decision was influenced more strongly by intrinsic values related to helping and working with people than by the prospect of extrinsic rewards (p < 0.0005). This supports a belief commonly held within the professional community, and bodies well for the future of massage therapy as a caring profession.

Medical Education, 1999

Objectives To investigate the effect of problem-based learning (PBL) on student achievement. Desi... more Objectives To investigate the effect of problem-based learning (PBL) on student achievement. Design Two cohorts of students studying podiatric medicine in Ontario were compared ± one having undertaken the traditional lecture-based curriculum, and the other the problem-based learning programme.

Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 2008

Aims: To identify the threshold of reduced sensory perception in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2... more Aims: To identify the threshold of reduced sensory perception in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM) using a range of research grade monofilaments. Methods: Three groups of participants were recruited into a between subject, cross-sectional study. Group 1(NEW), persons with Type 2 DM diagnosed for less than 2 years (n = 80); Group 2 (EST) persons with Type 2 DM diagnosed for more than 2 years (n = 91), and Group 3, a Comparison group without Type 2 DM (n = 73), resulted in a total study population, n = 244. Research grade monofilaments (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10-gram) were employed using standardised protocol, at 6 sites on the plantar aspect of both feet. The demographic and anthropometric measures of gender, age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and duration of Type 2 DM since diagnosis (if applicable) of the participants were analysed. Results: Perception of the research grade monofilaments differed significantly between the 3 groups (p < 0.05). The 6-gram monofilament was found to be the threshold of normal perception, based on 90% of the Comparison group perceiving the 6-gram monofilament at all sites in contrast to 64% of NEW and 48% of EST groups. Conclusion: The 6-gram monofilament was identified as the threshold of normal sensory perception. Inability to perceive the 6-gram monofilament indicates, when using the method described in this study, that diminution of sensory perception is evident. Employing a range of monofilaments, 6, 8 and 10-grams in Type 2 DM foot screening would allow the clinical detection of deteriorating sensory perception and enable implementation of foot protection strategies at an earlier stage than is currently practised.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2007

The intent of this paper is to present a view of evidence informed complementary and alternative ... more The intent of this paper is to present a view of evidence informed complementary and alternative health care in which the importance of research literacy is emphasized. To this end, the concept of an evidence funnel is suggested. This funnel helps to demonstrate the crucial role of research literacy in linking a nonhierarchal evidence structure to evidence informed patient care. One of the implications of this perspective is the need for professional programs and schools to plan curricula such that students develop a reasonable understanding of basic research methods. Additionally, students should have sufficient opportunity to evaluate and utilize evidence during, in particular, the clinical component of their education.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2008

In order to support decision making during comprehensive clinical examinations involving patient ... more In order to support decision making during comprehensive clinical examinations involving patient care, a system of performance intervention zones was developed and implemented. The aims of the system were to assist examiners in deciding when to intervene during a clinical examination, to facilitate consistency in decision making, and to create the basis and language for shared understanding of examinee performance. The system was recently utilized in Ontario during assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in relation to provincially set competency standards. Feedback from examiners suggested that the system of intervention zones was effective in achieving the specified aims, and on the basis of this preliminary field test, further work is being planned in order to establish the reliability of the system.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2007

Objective: This preliminary study was conducted to examine self-efficacy changes in multiple scle... more Objective: This preliminary study was conducted to examine self-efficacy changes in multiple sclerosis (MS) clients following a series of massage therapy treatments. Method: The study was based on a prospective single group pre-test post-test design with follow-up. Self-efficacy scores were obtained before the first treatment, after the last treatment in the series, and again 8-12 weeks after the final treatment had been received. Intervention: The intervention involved a series of weekly 1 h therapeutic massage treatments conducted over a 16-week period. All treatments were delivered by supervised student therapists in the final term of their 2-year program. Outcome measures: Self-efficacy (SE) was the outcome measure for the study. Descriptive statistics for SE scores were assessed, and inferential analysis involved the testing of differences between baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up scores. Results: Statistically significant improvement in self-efficacy was noted when baseline and post-intervention scores were compared (t ¼ 3:212; Po0:002). At the point of follow-up 8-12 weeks after the last treatment had been received, selfefficacy scores had decreased and did not differ significantly from baseline (t ¼ 0:303; Po0:382). Conclusion: The results suggest that massage therapy may increase the self-efficacy of clients with MS, potentially resulting in a better overall adjustment to the disease and an improvement in psycho-emotional state. The increase in self-efficacy noted at the end of the treatment series had dissipated at point of follow-up, suggesting that ongoing treatment is required in order to maintain the positive changes observed.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2014

This research was conducted to examine changes in self self-efficacy, (the perception/belief that... more This research was conducted to examine changes in self self-efficacy, (the perception/belief that one can competently cope with a challenging situation) in multiple sclerosis clients following a series of massage therapy treatments. This small practical trial investigated the effects of a pragmatic treatment protocol using a prospective randomized pretest posttest waitlist control design. Self-Efficacy scores were obtained before the first treatment, mid-treatment series, after the last treatment in the series, four weeks after the final treatment and again eight weeks after the final treatment had been received. The intervention involved a series of weekly one hour therapeutic massage treatments conducted over eight weeks and a subsequent eight week follow up period. All treatments were delivered by supervised student therapists in the final term of their two year massage therapy program. Self-Efficacy [SE] was the outcome for the study, measured using the Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy survey [MSSE]. Descriptive statistics for SE scores were assessed and inferential analysis involved the testing of between group differences at each of the measurement points noted above. Statistically significant improvement in self-efficacy was noted between treatment (n = 8) and control (n = 7) groups at mid treatment series (t = 2.32; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.02), post treatment series (t = 1.81; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) and at four week follow up (t = 2.24; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.02). At the eight week follow up self-efficacy scores had decreased and there was no statistically significant difference between groups (t = 0.87; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.2). Study results support previous findings indicating that massage therapy increases the self-efficacy of clients with multiple sclerosis, potentially resulting in a better overall adjustment to the disease and an improvement in psycho-emotional state. The increase in self-efficacy after 4 weeks of treatment suggests that positive response occurs more rapidly that was previously demonstrated. The improvement in self-efficacy endured 4 weeks after the end of the treatment series, which suggests that massage therapy may have longer term effects on self-efficacy that were not previously noted. Lack of inter group difference at the eight week follow up reinforces the notion that on-going treatment is required in order to maintain the positive changes observed.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2007

This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and foot contac... more This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and foot contact time in a client with diabetic neuropathy, following a single massage therapy treatment focused on the lower limbs. Method: The research was a pre-test post-test case study, in which plantar foot pressure measurements were taken at baseline, and immediately following massage therapy treatment. The participant was purposefully selected from the client pool at Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy, where the research was conducted. Intervention: The intervention involved a single massage therapy treatment of 80 min duration, focused on the lower limbs. The techniques applied followed principles as outlined in the standards of practice of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, and included Swedish and myofascial techniques, passive stretching, trigger point treatment and mobilization of the joints of the lower limb distal to the knee. Additionally, preparatory hydrotherapy was applied. All techniques were modified in relation to the client's clinical needs and presentation. Outcome measures: Outcome measures were coefficients of variation for mean peak pressures (MPP) for the full foot, the first metatarsophalangeal joint and the hallux; coefficients of variation for the mean value pressure picture (MVP), also for the full foot, the first metatarsophalangeal joint and the hallux; and foot contact time. Results: A significant increase in the variability of MPP and MVP (greater than 5%) below the hallux was noted. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in contact time (t(7) ¼ 58.207; po0.001) following treatment. Other comparisons were not statistically significant.

Journal of Bodywork and …, 2007

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and ... more OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and foot contact time in a client with diabetic neuropathy, following a single massage therapy treatment focused on the lower limbs. METHOD: The research was a pre ...

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2011

Purpose: Previous work reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system... more Purpose: Previous work reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system of performance intervention zones (PIZ), which was used in the assessment of internationally educated massage therapists. The study reported in this paper explores the usefulness and impact of the system as experienced by the evaluators involved in the diagnostic assessment. Method: This exploratory research was of a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual semi-structured interviews with evaluators who used the performance intervention zone system during the diagnostic assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in Ontario. After obtaining informed consent, interviews were taped, transcribed and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and recommendations regarding future use and development of the system. Results: Analysis revealed four themes within the data. These were that the performance intervention zone system 1) enhanced the confidence of examiners in their ability to conduct the comprehensive clinical examination effectively, 2) assisted and improved examiner decision making during the examination, 3) was a useful aid to communication regarding candidate performance, and 4) could be improved by clarifying the nature of intervention and implementing more extensive examiner training prior to the examination. Conclusion: The performance intervention zone system was found to be useful in orienting examiners to the evaluation process, in supporting decision making during the comprehensive clinical evaluation and as an aid to communication in the post-examination review of

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2011

Previous work (Finch, 2008) reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented s... more Previous work (Finch, 2008) reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system of performance intervention zones (PIZ), which was used in the assessment of internationally educated massage therapists. The study reported in this paper explores the usefulness and impact of the system as experienced by the evaluators involved in the diagnostic assessment. Method: This exploratory research was of a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual semi-structured interviews with evaluators who used the performance intervention zone system during the diagnostic assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in Ontario. After obtaining informed consent, interviews were taped, transcribed and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and recommendations regarding future use and development of the system. Results: Analysis revealed four themes within the data. These were that the performance intervention zone system 1) enhanced the confidence of examiners in their ability to conduct the comprehensive clinical examination effectively, 2) assisted and improved examiner decision making during the examination, 3) was a useful aid to communication regarding candidate performance, and 4) could be improved by clarifying the nature of intervention and implementing more extensive examiner training prior to the examination. Conclusion: The performance intervention zone system was found to be useful in orienting examiners to the evaluation process, in supporting decision making during the comprehensive clinical evaluation and as an aid to communication in the post-examination review of

The Foot

Chronic shin splints is a clinical presentation which is frequently encountered in a variety of p... more Chronic shin splints is a clinical presentation which is frequently encountered in a variety of practice settings. Although the term is a common one, it is often used non-specifically, indicating a generic clinical scenario as opposed to a definitive diagnosis. The intent of this paper is to present a review of the specific diagnoses clustered under the umbrella of chronic shin splints and to highlight certain diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Consideration is then given to the associated management principles and treatment alternatives are suggested.

International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, 2011

International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, Jan 19, 2009

In previous research, the motivation of massage therapy students was observed to change between c... more In previous research, the motivation of massage therapy students was observed to change between commencement of their professional studies and entry into practice. The change involved a decrease in intrinsic motivation (associated with altruism) and an increase in extrinsic motivation (associated with the prospect of external rewards). This paper reports on the influences underlying those changes. The research used a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual in-depth semi-structured interviews with massage therapy graduates, just after completion of a 2-year (2200-hour) full-time program. After informed consent was obtained, interviews were taped, transcribed, and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and subthemes. Previously noted changes in student motivation involved an increase in the influence of extrinsic rewards and a decrease in motivation related to helping and working with people. The findings of the present study ...

International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, Jan 20, 2008

Education for health (Abingdon, England), 2007

The study was conducted in order to determine whether the level of motivation related to intrinsi... more The study was conducted in order to determine whether the level of motivation related to intrinsic (people-oriented) and extrinsic (external reward) value complexes in a class of massage therapy students changed during their professional education. The research was a quasi-experimental within-subject design, in which survey data was collected from students on their first day in the massage therapy program and again towards the end of their final term. The data were collated and summarized, and the differences in motivation scores were assessed using Fisher's Least Significant Difference procedure. The results support the hypothesis that massage therapy students are motivated more strongly by intrinsic than extrinsic rewards both at the commencement of their studies and as they approach entry to practice. Also evident from the data is the fact that the students' motivation changed during their professional studies. This change involved a significant decrease in the level of i...

The Foot, 1999

... 652–673. 33 PW Brand and JD Ebner, Pressure sensitive devices for denervated hands and feet. ... more ... 652–673. 33 PW Brand and JD Ebner, Pressure sensitive devices for denervated hands and feet. ... 46 TG Mcpoil, MW Cornwall and W. Yamada, A comparison of two in-shoe plantar pressure ... 58 RN Battista and MJ Hodge, The development of health care technology assessment. ...

Medical Teacher, 2004

In Ontario massage therapy is a regulated health profession, and it has been speculated that mass... more In Ontario massage therapy is a regulated health profession, and it has been speculated that massage therapy students are motivated primarily by altruistic values, as has been documented in medicine. Students at Sutherland-Chan School and Teaching Clinic in Ontario were surveyed regarding their motivation to enter massage therapy education, with the intention of assessing the influence of certain value complexes on their decision. The results indicate that their decision was influenced more strongly by intrinsic values related to helping and working with people than by the prospect of extrinsic rewards (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.0005). This supports a belief commonly held within the professional community, and bodies well for the future of massage therapy as a caring profession.

Medical Education, 1999

Objectives To investigate the effect of problem-based learning (PBL) on student achievement. Desi... more Objectives To investigate the effect of problem-based learning (PBL) on student achievement. Design Two cohorts of students studying podiatric medicine in Ontario were compared ± one having undertaken the traditional lecture-based curriculum, and the other the problem-based learning programme.

Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 2008

Aims: To identify the threshold of reduced sensory perception in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2... more Aims: To identify the threshold of reduced sensory perception in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM) using a range of research grade monofilaments. Methods: Three groups of participants were recruited into a between subject, cross-sectional study. Group 1(NEW), persons with Type 2 DM diagnosed for less than 2 years (n = 80); Group 2 (EST) persons with Type 2 DM diagnosed for more than 2 years (n = 91), and Group 3, a Comparison group without Type 2 DM (n = 73), resulted in a total study population, n = 244. Research grade monofilaments (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10-gram) were employed using standardised protocol, at 6 sites on the plantar aspect of both feet. The demographic and anthropometric measures of gender, age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and duration of Type 2 DM since diagnosis (if applicable) of the participants were analysed. Results: Perception of the research grade monofilaments differed significantly between the 3 groups (p < 0.05). The 6-gram monofilament was found to be the threshold of normal perception, based on 90% of the Comparison group perceiving the 6-gram monofilament at all sites in contrast to 64% of NEW and 48% of EST groups. Conclusion: The 6-gram monofilament was identified as the threshold of normal sensory perception. Inability to perceive the 6-gram monofilament indicates, when using the method described in this study, that diminution of sensory perception is evident. Employing a range of monofilaments, 6, 8 and 10-grams in Type 2 DM foot screening would allow the clinical detection of deteriorating sensory perception and enable implementation of foot protection strategies at an earlier stage than is currently practised.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2007

The intent of this paper is to present a view of evidence informed complementary and alternative ... more The intent of this paper is to present a view of evidence informed complementary and alternative health care in which the importance of research literacy is emphasized. To this end, the concept of an evidence funnel is suggested. This funnel helps to demonstrate the crucial role of research literacy in linking a nonhierarchal evidence structure to evidence informed patient care. One of the implications of this perspective is the need for professional programs and schools to plan curricula such that students develop a reasonable understanding of basic research methods. Additionally, students should have sufficient opportunity to evaluate and utilize evidence during, in particular, the clinical component of their education.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2008

In order to support decision making during comprehensive clinical examinations involving patient ... more In order to support decision making during comprehensive clinical examinations involving patient care, a system of performance intervention zones was developed and implemented. The aims of the system were to assist examiners in deciding when to intervene during a clinical examination, to facilitate consistency in decision making, and to create the basis and language for shared understanding of examinee performance. The system was recently utilized in Ontario during assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in relation to provincially set competency standards. Feedback from examiners suggested that the system of intervention zones was effective in achieving the specified aims, and on the basis of this preliminary field test, further work is being planned in order to establish the reliability of the system.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2007

Objective: This preliminary study was conducted to examine self-efficacy changes in multiple scle... more Objective: This preliminary study was conducted to examine self-efficacy changes in multiple sclerosis (MS) clients following a series of massage therapy treatments. Method: The study was based on a prospective single group pre-test post-test design with follow-up. Self-efficacy scores were obtained before the first treatment, after the last treatment in the series, and again 8-12 weeks after the final treatment had been received. Intervention: The intervention involved a series of weekly 1 h therapeutic massage treatments conducted over a 16-week period. All treatments were delivered by supervised student therapists in the final term of their 2-year program. Outcome measures: Self-efficacy (SE) was the outcome measure for the study. Descriptive statistics for SE scores were assessed, and inferential analysis involved the testing of differences between baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up scores. Results: Statistically significant improvement in self-efficacy was noted when baseline and post-intervention scores were compared (t ¼ 3:212; Po0:002). At the point of follow-up 8-12 weeks after the last treatment had been received, selfefficacy scores had decreased and did not differ significantly from baseline (t ¼ 0:303; Po0:382). Conclusion: The results suggest that massage therapy may increase the self-efficacy of clients with MS, potentially resulting in a better overall adjustment to the disease and an improvement in psycho-emotional state. The increase in self-efficacy noted at the end of the treatment series had dissipated at point of follow-up, suggesting that ongoing treatment is required in order to maintain the positive changes observed.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2014

This research was conducted to examine changes in self self-efficacy, (the perception/belief that... more This research was conducted to examine changes in self self-efficacy, (the perception/belief that one can competently cope with a challenging situation) in multiple sclerosis clients following a series of massage therapy treatments. This small practical trial investigated the effects of a pragmatic treatment protocol using a prospective randomized pretest posttest waitlist control design. Self-Efficacy scores were obtained before the first treatment, mid-treatment series, after the last treatment in the series, four weeks after the final treatment and again eight weeks after the final treatment had been received. The intervention involved a series of weekly one hour therapeutic massage treatments conducted over eight weeks and a subsequent eight week follow up period. All treatments were delivered by supervised student therapists in the final term of their two year massage therapy program. Self-Efficacy [SE] was the outcome for the study, measured using the Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy survey [MSSE]. Descriptive statistics for SE scores were assessed and inferential analysis involved the testing of between group differences at each of the measurement points noted above. Statistically significant improvement in self-efficacy was noted between treatment (n = 8) and control (n = 7) groups at mid treatment series (t = 2.32; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.02), post treatment series (t = 1.81; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) and at four week follow up (t = 2.24; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.02). At the eight week follow up self-efficacy scores had decreased and there was no statistically significant difference between groups (t = 0.87; p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.2). Study results support previous findings indicating that massage therapy increases the self-efficacy of clients with multiple sclerosis, potentially resulting in a better overall adjustment to the disease and an improvement in psycho-emotional state. The increase in self-efficacy after 4 weeks of treatment suggests that positive response occurs more rapidly that was previously demonstrated. The improvement in self-efficacy endured 4 weeks after the end of the treatment series, which suggests that massage therapy may have longer term effects on self-efficacy that were not previously noted. Lack of inter group difference at the eight week follow up reinforces the notion that on-going treatment is required in order to maintain the positive changes observed.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2007

This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and foot contac... more This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and foot contact time in a client with diabetic neuropathy, following a single massage therapy treatment focused on the lower limbs. Method: The research was a pre-test post-test case study, in which plantar foot pressure measurements were taken at baseline, and immediately following massage therapy treatment. The participant was purposefully selected from the client pool at Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy, where the research was conducted. Intervention: The intervention involved a single massage therapy treatment of 80 min duration, focused on the lower limbs. The techniques applied followed principles as outlined in the standards of practice of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, and included Swedish and myofascial techniques, passive stretching, trigger point treatment and mobilization of the joints of the lower limb distal to the knee. Additionally, preparatory hydrotherapy was applied. All techniques were modified in relation to the client's clinical needs and presentation. Outcome measures: Outcome measures were coefficients of variation for mean peak pressures (MPP) for the full foot, the first metatarsophalangeal joint and the hallux; coefficients of variation for the mean value pressure picture (MVP), also for the full foot, the first metatarsophalangeal joint and the hallux; and foot contact time. Results: A significant increase in the variability of MPP and MVP (greater than 5%) below the hallux was noted. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in contact time (t(7) ¼ 58.207; po0.001) following treatment. Other comparisons were not statistically significant.

Journal of Bodywork and …, 2007

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and ... more OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to examine changes in plantar foot pressure variability, and foot contact time in a client with diabetic neuropathy, following a single massage therapy treatment focused on the lower limbs. METHOD: The research was a pre ...

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2011

Purpose: Previous work reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system... more Purpose: Previous work reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system of performance intervention zones (PIZ), which was used in the assessment of internationally educated massage therapists. The study reported in this paper explores the usefulness and impact of the system as experienced by the evaluators involved in the diagnostic assessment. Method: This exploratory research was of a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual semi-structured interviews with evaluators who used the performance intervention zone system during the diagnostic assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in Ontario. After obtaining informed consent, interviews were taped, transcribed and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and recommendations regarding future use and development of the system. Results: Analysis revealed four themes within the data. These were that the performance intervention zone system 1) enhanced the confidence of examiners in their ability to conduct the comprehensive clinical examination effectively, 2) assisted and improved examiner decision making during the examination, 3) was a useful aid to communication regarding candidate performance, and 4) could be improved by clarifying the nature of intervention and implementing more extensive examiner training prior to the examination. Conclusion: The performance intervention zone system was found to be useful in orienting examiners to the evaluation process, in supporting decision making during the comprehensive clinical evaluation and as an aid to communication in the post-examination review of