Publications by authors named "J Heick"

Objectives: Rising surgical rates for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) and underutilization of physical therapist services for this condition may increase patient risks and healthcare costs. Patient beliefs may also contribute to this problem. Therefore, our objective was to determine which messages about physical therapy were perceived as strongest by patients with LSS and whether those messages were influenced by patient factors.

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Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common and persistent cardiac arrhythmia that impacts morbidity, mortality, disability, quality of life, and healthcare costs. Typically, AF is managed using a three-pillar approach of rate control, rhythm control, and anticoagulation. However, these interventions fail to address the underlying pathophysiological factors that contribute to AF.

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Introduction: Patients presenting to direct access physiotherapists may present with a serious pathology that mimics a musculoskeletal condition. Recognition of atypical clinical patterns allows for referral to an appropriate provider when a serious pathology is present. This case report details a patient with a pulmonary pathology who presented to a physiotherapist with a complaint of neck and chest pain following medical consultations.

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Background: A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can result in vestibular and oculomotor dysfunctions. The Head Shake-Sensory Organization Test was developed from the original Sensory Organization Test to measure a subject's ability to maintain balance while moving their head.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the performance of adults with no history of concussion to those with a history of concussion on the Head Shake-Sensory Organization Test to determine if long-standing balance deficits are present after concussion.

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Direct access in physiotherapy (DAPT) occurs when a patient has the ability to self-refer to physical therapy without physician referral. This model of care in musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) has shown better outcomes than the traditional-based medical model of care that requires physician referral to access physiotherapist services. This traditional physician referral often results in a delay in care.

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