Assessing the impact of early initiation of physical therapy compared to prolonged bed rest on length of stay in the hospital in patients with traumatic brain injuries
Advisor(s)
Dr. Megan Lieb
Dr. Jamie Hunsicker
Confirmation
1
Document Type
Poster
Location
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Start Date
11-4-2025 11:00 AM
End Date
11-4-2025 11:50 AM
Abstract
Problem: Traumatic brain injuries are a leading cause of disability, often resulting in prolonged hospital stays and long-term rehabilitation needs. Traditional care for patients with traumatic brain injuries is normally prolonged bed rest, which may contribute to complications such as muscle atrophy, deep vein thrombosis and bed sores.
Aim/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of early initiation of physical therapy compared to prolonged bed rest on the length of hospital stay in patients with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injuries.
Methods: This study utilizes a randomized controlled trial with a two-group parallel design. Participants (aged 18-65) with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injuries will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: early physical therapy, initiated within 48 hours of hospital admission, or standard care with physical therapy initiated after one week. Length of stay, measured in days, will be compared between the groups. The Functional Independence Measure will be used to assess mobility which will be taken at baseline and discharge. Complications, including deep vein thrombosis and pressure ulcers, will also be recorded. All data will be collected through electronic health records and standardized physical assessment tools.
Conclusion: This study has the potential to make a difference in clinical practice by providing evidence on whether early physical therapy improves patient outcomes and reduces hospital length of stay in patients with traumatic brain injuries. Findings of this study may support the development of updated rehabilitation protocols, ultimately enhancing patient recovery and reducing healthcare costs.
Recommended Citation
Callahan, Alise Mia, "Assessing the impact of early initiation of physical therapy compared to prolonged bed rest on length of stay in the hospital in patients with traumatic brain injuries" (2025). ONU Student Research Colloquium. 32.
https://digitalcommons.onu.edu/student_research_colloquium/2025/Posters/32
Open Access
Available to all.
Assessing the impact of early initiation of physical therapy compared to prolonged bed rest on length of stay in the hospital in patients with traumatic brain injuries
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Problem: Traumatic brain injuries are a leading cause of disability, often resulting in prolonged hospital stays and long-term rehabilitation needs. Traditional care for patients with traumatic brain injuries is normally prolonged bed rest, which may contribute to complications such as muscle atrophy, deep vein thrombosis and bed sores.
Aim/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of early initiation of physical therapy compared to prolonged bed rest on the length of hospital stay in patients with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injuries.
Methods: This study utilizes a randomized controlled trial with a two-group parallel design. Participants (aged 18-65) with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injuries will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: early physical therapy, initiated within 48 hours of hospital admission, or standard care with physical therapy initiated after one week. Length of stay, measured in days, will be compared between the groups. The Functional Independence Measure will be used to assess mobility which will be taken at baseline and discharge. Complications, including deep vein thrombosis and pressure ulcers, will also be recorded. All data will be collected through electronic health records and standardized physical assessment tools.
Conclusion: This study has the potential to make a difference in clinical practice by providing evidence on whether early physical therapy improves patient outcomes and reduces hospital length of stay in patients with traumatic brain injuries. Findings of this study may support the development of updated rehabilitation protocols, ultimately enhancing patient recovery and reducing healthcare costs.