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BACKGROUND: Incorporating an occupation-based assessment along with or in place of an assessment of body functions and structures is not performed routinely in hand therapy practice. PURPOSE: (a) Explore correlations between body functions, activities and participation (A&P), and quality of life (QOL); (b) assess the extent to which personal factors and body functions contribute to variations in A&P and QOL; (c) compare the QOL of individuals with and without hand impairment (HI). STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional. METHODS: Seventy-seven patients (Mean age=43.70 SD=17.56; 47 males and 30 females) with chronic and acute hand impairment were recruited from two hand clinics and matched with healthy participants. Assessments were administered to participants in their first visit to the hand clinic. QOL was measured with the World Health Organization QOL questionnaire; A&P with the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire; pain with the Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation; hand function with The Functional Dexterity Test, Jamar Dynamometer and Pinch Gauge. RESULTS: Significant correlations were found between QOL and A&P, dexterity, and pain, as well as between A&P and hand strength and pain. Personal factors, hand function, and pain collectively explained 28.9% of QOL variance and 61.4% of A&P variance. Pain emerged as the sole significant contributor to QOL variance, while both hand function and pain significantly influenced A&P variance. Comparisons between the study group and controls highlighted significant differences in QOL domains, with the HI group reporting lower perceived QOL in physical, social, and environmental domains. CONCLUSION: The significance of adopting a comprehensive approach in HI intervention was highlighted. A complex interplay of factors across different levels of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework imply that clinicians should avoid fixating exclusively on isolated factors or specific domains.

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OBJECTIVE: Up to 50 % of patients recovering from pulmonary embolism (PE) experience negative long-term outcomes. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are important in identifying what matters to patients. We aimed to identify PROMs used in clinical studies and recommended by the International Consortium of Health Outcomes (ICHOM) and compare individual items with factors considered important by patients recovering from PE. METHODS: This was a convergent mixed-methods systematic review, including quantitative studies, using PROMs and qualitative studies with non-cancer-related PE patients. Items from each PROM and qualitative findings were categorised using an International Classification of Function linking process to allow for integrated synthesis. RESULTS: A total of 68 studies using 34 different PROMs with 657 items and 13 qualitative studies with 408 findings were included. A total of 104 individual ICF codes were used, and subsequently sorted into 20 distinct categories representing patient concerns. Identified PROMs were found to adequately cover 17/20 categories, including anxiety, fear of bleeding, stress, depression, dizziness/nausea, sleep disturbance, pain, dyspnea, fatigue, activity levels, family and friends, socializing, outlook on life, and medical treatment. PROMs from the ICHOM core set covered the same categories, except for dizziness/nausea. CONCLUSIONS: No single PROM covered all aspects assessed as important by the PE population. PROMs recommended in the ICHOM core set cover 16/20 aspects. However, worrisome thoughts, hypervigilance around symptoms, and uncertainty of illness were experienced by patients with PE but were not covered by PROMS.

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BACKGROUND: Patient reported outcome measures are used to evaluate hand therapy outcomes. Yet, limited evidence is available regarding the outcomes children desire from hand therapy. PURPOSE: To determine the desired treatment outcomes of children with acquired upper extremity impairments. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive case series METHODS: Two raters independently applied International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) linking rules to the Canadian Occupational Performance goals of 151 children, age 6-18, receiving occupational therapy for acquired upper extremity impairments. Prevalence of the linked ICF codes was examined using frequency distributions. Kappa and the proportion of positive agreement assessed inter-rater agreement of the linked codes. RESULTS: Following consensus, two independent raters linked 894 meaningful concepts to the study population's 501 goals derived from the Canadian Occupational Performance. Ninety-two unique ICF codes were linked to these 894 meaningful concepts. Twenty-three ICF codes account for 77.2% of the most frequently linked codes. For these top 23 codes, the greatest proportion (51.4%) of ICF codes are in the d4 mobility chapter representing specific constructs of hand and arm use. The second largest proportion (14.2%) of linked codes are in the d9 Community, society and civic life chapter aligning with participation in sports, music, performing arts and play. Within the d5 self-care chapter, the study population's top priorities included hair care, fitness and drinking. The primary concerns within the b body functions domain are reduced pain, improved joint mobility and strength. CONCLUSION: The study population's top priorities align with specific dimensions of hand and arm use and participation in sports and fitness, performing arts, and play. Further research may elucidate alignment of these patient-desired outcomes and the item banks of commonly used patient reported outcome measurement scales in this population.

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Objective: There is no study in the literature evaluating impairments and functional limitations in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) under the framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). To evaluate the adults with CF using ICF model. Methods: Twenty-three adults with CF and 23 age-sex matched healthy individuals included in this cross-sectional study. The participants evaluated according to the selected items for domain b, domain s, and domain d from the Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (OPD) Comprehensive Core Set. The body composition, pulmonary functions, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength/endurance tests and anxiety/depression level were evaluated for domain b and s. For domain d, the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey were used. Results: The fat-free mass (p = .044), pulmonary functions (p < .05), respiratory muscle endurance (p = .010), absolute and %quadriceps muscle strength (p = .001, p = .025, respectively), number of sit-ups (p = .020), walking speed (p = .035), ISWT and ISWT% distance (p < .001) and peak oxygen consumption (p < .001) were significantly lower in adults with CF compared to healthy individuals (p < .05). There were only significant differences in SF-36 physical functioning and role physical subdimension scores between groups (p = .009, p = .045 respectively). Conclusions: The ICF framework is applicable to comprehensively evaluate limitations of adults with CF among rehabilitation professionals. Especially age, respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength and endurance, dyspnea perception, peripheral muscle endurance were related to activity and participation limitation.

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ObjectiveTo analyze the content and psychological measurement indicators of the commonly used motor function assessment tools for children and adolescents, based on the theory and method of International Classification of Function, Disability and Health-Children and Youth Version (ICF-CY). MethodsBased on the ICF-CY classification framework and coding system, four commonly used functional evaluation tools for children and adolescents were selected, and their motor function measurement methods and psychological measurement indicators were analyzed by applying ICF coding rules and matching principles. ResultsFinally, nine English articles and two Chinese articles were included, from four countries including South Korea, Spain, China and Brazil. They were mainly published in the journals of clinical medicine, neuroscience, public health, rehabilitation science and other fields from 2011 to 2021. The age of the subjects was 0 to 16 years old involving 987 subjects; the health condition included spastic cerebral palsy, neurodevelopmental disorder, etc. Among the eleven articles included, six articles used Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88), two articles used Fine Motor Function Measure Scale (FMFM), two articles used Peabody Developmental Motor Scales Second Edition (PDMS-2), and two articles used Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Functional Skills Scale (PEDI-FSS), and three articles used Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). The measurement methods were objective evaluation, subjective evaluation, and subjective observation, etc. The number of measurements was two to six. The measurement indicators of motor function mainly involved two levels. The first was the physical activity level, including gross movement, fine movement and motor control ability. The second was the functional level of activities, mainly including activities of daily living and functional independence. ConclusionBased on ICF-CY, the evaluation of children's motor function and activity and participation was mainly divided into two levels. At the body function level, the main evaluation indicators included b730, b760, b770, etc. At the level of activities and participation, the main evaluation indicators were d410, d440, d445, etc. GMFM-88 focuses on the evaluation of children's body movement and activity functions, such as sitting, standing, lying, walking and running, mainly involving b760, d410, d455, etc. FMFM focused on autonomous movement, motor motivation and motor coordination, and was mainly used to assess the functional status of upper limbs of children with cerebral palsy aged 0 to 3 years, mainly involving b760, d155, d440, etc. PDMS-2 payed more attention to evaluating the overall motor development level and motor function status of children and adolescents, mainly involving b750, b760, d415, etc. PEDI-FSS move partition focused on children's actual motor function performance in activities of daily living, and evaluated the application and practicability of children's motor function in activities of daily living, mainly involving b760, d410, d450, etc. In terms of measurement methods, the measurement of motor function mainly included objective evaluation and subjective evaluation; the measurement of activity function mainly included objective evaluation and subjective observation. These assessment tools have established norms varies with different age groups according to the movement development. Evaluators need accept professional training before using the above assessment tools to improve the reliability, validity and adaptability of the assessment.

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Objective:To screen out the core sets of neurogenic bladder in patients with spinal cord injury. Method:The basic databases related to neurogenic bladder were screened out from the international SCI data sets database provided by ISCOS,and each variable of these databases was sorted out.Using the principle of linkage and matching between ICF and outcome measurement tools developed by the ICF research group of WHO-FIC collaborating center,the selected variables were linked and matched with ICF comprehensive mea-surement items using the method of qualitative linking and matching of content by professionals.Collate match-ing ICF items to generate neurogenic bladder ICF core sets. Result:By comparing the same variables with two investigators,combining similar variables,and excluding variables unrelated to neurogenic bladder,85 items were included.A total of 60 concepts with clear meaning were extracted,and 46 concepts could be linked and matched with ICF.A total of 40 core sets of neurogenic bladder ICF were finally obtained after contact and matching with ICF,including 16 physical functions,8 body structures,9 activities and participation,and 7 environmental factors and personal factors. Conclusion:The systematic retrospective study method preliminarily screens the core sets of neurogenic blad-der in patients with spinal cord injury,which provides a more comprehensive framework for the evaluation and treatment of neurogenic bladder.

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PURPOSE: We explored the content and attainment of rehabilitation goals the first year after rehabilitation among patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. METHODS: Participants (n = 523) recorded goals in the Patient Specific Functional Scale at admission and reported goal attainment at admission, discharge, and 12 months after rehabilitation on an 11-point numeric rating scale. Goal content was linked to the ICF coding system and summarized as high, maintained, or no attainment. Changes in absolute scores were investigated using paired samples t-tests. RESULTS: Goals had high attainment with a significant positive change (-1.83 [95% CI -2.0, -1.65], p > 0.001) during rehabilitation, whereas goals had no attainment with a significant negative change (0.36 [0.14, 0.57], p > 0.001) between discharge and 12 months after rehabilitation. Goals focusing on everyday routines, physical health, pain management, and social or work participation were highly attained during rehabilitation. Goals that were difficult to enhance or maintain after rehabilitation addressed everyday routines, physical health, and work participation. CONCLUSION: The positive changes in goal attainment largely occurred during rehabilitation, but they appeared more difficult to maintain at home. Therefore, rehabilitation goals should be reflected in the follow-up care planned at discharge.Implications for rehabilitationThe contents of rehabilitation goals reflect the complexity and wide range of challenges patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases experience.Positive changes in goal attainment largely occur during rehabilitation and appear to be more difficult to enhance or maintain at home.Rehabilitation interventions and follow-up care should be tailored to support patients in maintaining their attained goals for healthy self-management.Rehabilitation goals should be reflected in the follow-up care planned at discharge.

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Background: Stroke is one of the major causes of chronic physical disability in the United Kingdom, typically characterized by unilateral weakness and a loss of muscle power and movement coordination. When combined with pre-existing comorbidities such as cardiac disease and diabetes, it results in reductions in cardiovascular (CV) fitness, physical activity levels, functional capacity, and levels of independent living. High-intensity training protocols have shown promising improvements in fitness and function for people with stroke (PwS). However, it remains unclear how intensity is defined, measured, and prescribed in this population. Further, we do not know what the optimal outcome measures are to capture the benefits of intensive exercise. Aim: To understand how intensity is defined and calibrated in the stroke exercise literature to date and how the benefits of high-intensity training in PwS are measured. Methods: A rapid review of the literature was undertaken to provide an evidence synthesis that would provide more timely information for decision-making (compared with a standard systematic review). Electronic databases were searched (including Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, and Embase for studies from 2015 to 2020). These were screened by title and abstract for inclusion if they: (a) were specific to adult PwS; and (b) were high-intensity exercise interventions. Eligible studies were critically appraised using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT). The data extraction tool recorded the definition of intensity, methods used to measure and progress intensity within sessions, and the outcomes measure used to capture the effects of the exercise intervention. Results: Seventeen studies were selected for review, 15 primary research studies and two literature reviews. Sixteen of the 17 studies were of high quality. Nine of the primary research studies used bodyweight-supported treadmills to achieve the high-intensity training threshold, four used static exercise bikes, and two used isometric arm strengthening. Five of the primary research studies had the aim of increasing walking speed, five aimed to increase CV fitness, three aimed to improve electroencephalogram (EEG) measured cortical evoked potentials and corticospinal excitability, and two investigated any changes in muscle strength. Although only one study gave a clear definition of intensity, all studies clearly defined the high-intensity protocol used, with most (15 out of 17 studies) clearly describing threshold periods of high-intensity activity, followed by rest or active recovery periods (of varying times). All of the studies reviewed used outcomes specific to body structure and function (International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) constructs), with fewer including outcomes relating to activity and only three outcomes relating to participation. The reported effect of high-intensity training on PwS was promising, however, the underlying impact on neurological, musculoskeletal, and CV systems was not clearly specified. Conclusions: There is a clear lack of definition and understanding about intensity and how thresholds of intensity in this population are used as an intervention. There is also an inconsistency about the most appropriate methods to assess and provide a training protocol based on that assessment. It remains unclear if high-intensity training impacts the desired body system, given the diverse presentation of PwS, from a neuromuscular, CV, functional, and psychosocial perspective. Future work needs to establish a clearer understanding of intensity and the impact of exercise training on multiple body systems in PwS. Further understanding into the appropriate assessment tools to enable appropriate prescription of intensity in exercise intervention is required. Outcomes need to capture measures specific not only to the body system, but also level of function and desired goals of individuals.

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BACKGROUND: To the best of our knowledge, there is no study in the literature investigating the extrapulmonary outcomes of children with non-cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis and CF under the framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the children with CF and non-CF bronchiectasis using the ICF model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Children with CF, non-CF bronchiectasis, and healthy counterparts were evaluated (20 participants in each group) according to the ICF items in domain b (body functions), domain s (body structures), and domain d (activities and participation). The pulmonary functions, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength tests, and posture analysis were carried out for domain b. For domain d, however, the Glittre-activities of daily living test and Pediatric Outcome Data Collection were used. RESULTS: Muscle strength of shoulder abductors and hip extensors in children with CF was significantly lower than healthy children and adolescents (P < .05). The severity of lateral and posterior postural abnormalities in children with CF and non-CF bronchiectasis was higher than those of healthy children (P < .05). Among the patient groups, global function, sports/physical function, expectations, transfers/basic mobility, and pain/comfort were the most affected participation dimensions (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the need for comprehensive up-to-date evaluation methods according to the ICF model for understanding rehabilitation requirements in CF and non-CF bronchiectasis in different age groups.

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Background: Parkinson's disease demonstrates a spectrum of motor and non-motor symptoms. Falling is common and disabling. Current medical management shows minimal impact to reduce falls or fall-related risk factors, such as deficits in gait, strength, and postural instability. Despite evidence supporting rehabilitation in reducing fall risk factors, the most appropriate intervention to reduce overall fall rate remains inconclusive. This article aims to 1) synthesise current evidence and conceptual models of falls rehabilitation in Parkinson's in a narrative review; and based on this evidence, 2) introduce the treatment protocol used in the falls prevention and multi-centre clinical trial "PDSAFE". Method: Search of four bibliographic databases using the terms "Parkinson*" and "Fall*" combined with each of the following; "Rehab*, Balanc*, Strength*, Strateg*and Exercis*" and a framework for narrative review was followed. A total of 3557 papers were identified, 416 were selected for review. The majority report the impact of rehabilitation on isolated fall risk factors. Twelve directly measure the impact on overall fall rate. Discussion: Results were used to construct a narrative review with conceptual discussion based on the "International Classification of Functioning", leading to presentation of the "PDSAFE" intervention protocol. Conclusions: Evidence suggests training single, fall risk factors may not affect overall fall rate. Combining with behavioural and strategy training in a functional, personalised multi-dimensional model, addressing all components of the "International Classification of Functioning" is likely to provide a greater influence on falls reduction. "PDSAFE" is a multi-dimensional, physiotherapist delivered, individually tailored, progressive, home-based programme. It is designed with a strong evidence-based approach and illustrates a model for the clinical delivery of the conceptual theory discussed. Implications for Rehabilitation Parkinson's disease demonstrates a spectrum of motor and non-motor symptoms, where falling is common and disabling. Current medical and surgical management have minimal impact on falls, rehabilitation of falls risk factors has strong evidence but the most appropriate intervention to reduce overall fall rate remains inconclusive. Addressing all components of the International Classification of Function in a multifactorial model when designing falls rehabilitation interventions may be more effective at reducing fall rates in people with Parkinson's than treating isolated risk factors. The clinical model for falls rehabilitation in people with Parkinson's should be multi-dimensional.

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Objective:This paper reviewed the current development of education of physical therapy and discussed the growing demand for physical therapists and gaps of their professional education. It is crucial to reconstruct a framework and system of sciences and specialty in physical therapy at the undergraduate level using WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to meet the requirement of core competency of physiotherapist developed by World Confederation of Physical Therapy. The core curricula should be integrated into the conceptual framework and approaches of functioning and rehabilitation. Methods:Using ICF, the construction framework, system of specialty and development of curricula of physical therapy at undergraduate education had been proposed and reconstructed. Results:With the theories and approaches of modern pedology and curriculum theory and ICF, referenced by competency requirements for physical therapists from World Confederation of Physical Therapy, three core courses had been proposed and their content had been reconstructed, involving the theories, methods and practical skills in the fields of physical therapy. These courses include functional diagnosis, intervention and evaluation based on ICF. Conclusion:It is implicated from the theory and approaches of ICF that the education and professional training of physical therapy should be tailored to the needs of health-related services.

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To maximize the performance of an athlete, a team of experts work together to ensure each athlete achieves the maximal benefit from their prescribed exercise conditioning programs. In addition to the exercise specialists, the athlete's team frequently includes psychologists (who address performance anxiety, stress, and depression), counselors (who address smoking cessation, reduction or elimination of alcohol consumption if necessary, weight optimization, and optimal sleep), and nutritionists (who address optimal nutrition and body mass attributes). Such a collaborative approach has become standard practice for athletes aiming to excel in their sports. Despite unequivocal and compelling evidence, this paradigm has only weakly been transferred to the needs of patients participating in rehabilitation programs. These individuals, like the athlete, also need to achieve their highest level of functional performance and recovery for carrying out their activities of daily living, managing the needs of their families, and often returning to work. This article reviews the evidence-based literature and the implications of this multifaceted approach in rehabilitation programs. The augmented benefits to exercise training and conditioning (prescriptive activity/exercise and less sitting) along with their 'effect sizes' are described in the rehabilitation context, in conjunction with smoking cessation, reduced harmful alcohol consumption, optimal nutrition, optimal body mass, manageable stress, and optimal sleep. These factors can be viewed as physical performance enhancers both in individuals participating in rehabilitation whose aim is maximal performance and recovery and in athletes aiming for maximal performance in their sports. Thus, without targeted attention to these lifestyle factors, rehabilitation outcomes cannot be maximized. The evidence presented in this article has implications for health professionals including physical therapists and others who are practicing in rehabilitation settings and those working with individuals in need in the community.

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Objective To assess the impact of rehabilitation procedures based on the International Classification of Function,Disability and Health for Children and Youth (ICF-CY) on the life quality of children with cerebral palsy.Methods Sixty children with cerebra] palsy were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group,each of 30.The observation group received an assessment of their physical functioning,physical structure,activity participation and environmental factors,as well as family guidance based on the ICF-CY framework.The control group was evaluated and treated according to traditional methods.The experiment lasted two months.Before the treatment,as well as after one and two months,both groups were evaluated using Barthel index (BI) and the parents' satisfaction was assessed.The two groups' family training was also evaluated after two months of treatment.Results The average BI and parent satisfaction scores of the two groups were not significantly different before the intervention.After one and two months,improvement was observed on both measures in both groups,but the observation groups' ratings were higher at both time points.After the 2 months of treatment there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of physical functioning,but the average scores on family rehabilitation,activity participation and environment factors were all significantly better for the observation group.Conclusion Treatment based on the ICF-CY framework can more effectively improve the participation of children with cerebral palsy,which should have a positive effect on their life quality.

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Problems of neurological rehabilitation are considered based on two levels of the International Classification of Functioning (ICF)-Body Structures and Function level and Activity level-and modulating factors related to the individual and the environment. Specifically, at the Body Structures and Function level, problems addressed include spasticity, muscle weakness, disordered muscle activation patterns and disruptions in coordinated movement. At the Activity level, deficits in multi-joint and multi-segment upper limb reaching movements are reviewed. We address how physiologically well established principles in the control of actions, Threshold Control and Referent Control as outlined in the Equilibrium-Point theory can help advance the understanding of underlying deficits that may limit recovery at each level.

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PURPOSE: Understanding the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and long-term unmet needs is important for guiding services to optimise life following stroke. We investigated whether HRQoL between 90 and 180 days following stroke was associated with long-term unmet needs. METHODS: Data from Australian Stroke Clinical Registry (AuSCR) registrants who participated in the Australian Stroke Survivor Needs Survey were used. Outcome data, including the EQ-5D, are routinely collected in AuSCR between 90 and 180 days post-stroke. Unmet needs were assessed at a median of 2 years and categorised into: health; everyday living; work/leisure; and support domains. Multivariable regression was used to determine associations between the EQ-5D dimensions and the likelihood of experiencing unmet needs and the visual analogue scale (VAS) (rating 0-100) and number of reported unmet needs. RESULTS: In total, 173 AuSCR registrants completed the Needs Survey (median age 69 years, 67 % male; 77 % ischaemic stroke). VAS scores were negatively associated with the number of reported long-term unmet needs [irr 0.98, (95 % CI 0.97, 0 99) p < 0.001]. Having EQ-5D activity limitations was associated with unmet living needs (aOR 4.5, 95 % CI 1.1, 18.8). Requiring living supports at 90-180 days was associated with unmet health needs (aOR 4.9, 95 % CI 1.5, 16.1). Those with pain at 90-180 days were less likely to report unmet health (aOR 0.09, 95 % CI 0.02, 0.4) and support needs (aOR 0.2, 95 % CI 0.06, 0.6). CONCLUSION: Routinely collected HRQoL data can identify survivors at risk of experiencing long-term unmet needs. This information is important for targeting service delivery to optimise outcomes following stroke.

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INTRODUCTION: Gabapentin has been used in the management of neuropathic pain, epilepsy and occasionally movement disorders. METHODS: A four-year retrospective, observational study analysed the use of gabapentin for severe dystonia in children at the Evelina London Children's Hospital. Motor severity was classified according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), Dystonia Severity Assessment Plan (DSAP) and levels of impairment in activities of daily living were graded according to the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, Children & Youth version (ICF-CY) before and after gabapentin. RESULTS: The majority of the 69 children reported were level 5 GMFCS (non-ambulant). The DSAP grade fell significantly from grade 3 before to grade 1 after gabapentin. Significant improvements in median ICF-CY grades were seen following gabapentin in sleep quality, sleep amount, mood & agreeableness, pain, general muscle tone, involuntary muscle contractions and seating tolerance (p < 0.01 in all areas). A significantly higher mean dose of 18.1 mg/kg/dose (SD: 13.3) for dystonia, compared to 7.61 mg/kg/dose (SD: 4.14) for pain relief without dystonia (z = -2.54, p = 0.011) was noted. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: Gabapentin may significantly ameliorate dystonia severity and improve activities of daily living and quality of life in children with severe dystonia.

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This qualitative study used focus groups to identify meaningful components of exercise and active recreation (E/AR) related to consistent participation for those with spinal cord injury (SCI). Transcripts from each focus group were analyzed with classical content analysis, grounded theory coding, and meaning condensation using the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF). Variables within each of the ICF domains (body structures and functions, activities/participation, and environment) were indicated as meaningful components leading to increased participation, independence, and reasons why people consistently participated in E/AR. Occupational therapists can utilize these components to implement therapeutic intervisions, which provide clients with a sense of purpose and being, thus improving outcomes in meaningful occupations.

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PURPOSE: To examine the environmental and personal factors in low-income countries (LICs) that influence prosthetic rehabilitation of adults with lower-limb (LL) amputations and their ability to participate in daily activities. METHODS: In this qualitative descriptive study, 11 prosthetists participated in semi-structured interviews by telephone or Skype. Qualitative thematic analysis was guided by the International Classification of Function. RESULTS: Facilitating continuity of care, consideration of physical environments and usage, prosthetic quality including durability and socket fit, and minimizing the visibility of disability, were found to be important factors affecting the provision of prosthetic services in LICs. CONCLUSIONS: Environmental and personal factors must be considered when providing prosthetic rehabilitation for adults with LL amputations in LICs in order to optimize participation in activities. Results from this study provide new insights about some of the factors that influence the ability of individuals with LL amputations to rehabilitate to a level where they are able to participate in meaningful activities within their communities. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: There are unique environmental and personal components that can influence activity and participation of lower-limb (LL) prosthetic users in low-income countries (LICs). These components are often overlooked in the design of prosthetic devices and provision of prosthetic services. Continuity of care, condition of the post-surgical residuum, outdoor environments of common occupations, aesthetics and durability of prostheses, and user comfort should all be considered when providing prosthetic rehabilitation to adults with LL amputations in LICs to promote activity and participation. Results of our study can inform the practice of prosthetists in LICs by highlighting their contributions in enabling participation for LL prosthetic users. Our results can also inform the design of durable and comfortable prostheses and the provision of more appropriate prosthetic rehabilitation to LL prosthetic users in LICs to facilitate and optimize participation.

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This research was based on the theory and method of International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) and looked into the issues of physical function and disability. It tried to explore the purpose, knowledge structure and curriculum of special physical education that met the needs of social development and to restructure the curriculum and content of special physical education. Stu-dents of special physical education should not only master basic specialized knowledge, but also be able to practice theories, so as to better serve all kinds of children with special needs in training, assessment and intervention.

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For over a decade, organizations have attempted to include the measurement and reporting of health outcome data in contractual agreements between funders and health service providers, but few have succeeded. This research explores the utility of collecting health outcomes data that could be included in funding contracts for an Australian Community Care Organisation (CCO). An action-research methodology was used to trial the implementation of outcome measurement in six diverse projects within the CCO using a taxonomy of interventions based on the International Classification of Function. The findings from the six projects are presented as vignettes to illustrate the issues around the routine collection of health outcomes in each case. Data collection and analyses were structured around Donabedian's structure-process-outcome triad. Health outcomes are commonly defined as a change in health status that is attributable to an intervention. This definition assumes that a change in health status can be defined and measured objectively; the intervention can be defined; the change in health status is attributable to the intervention; and that the health outcomes data are accessible. This study found flaws with all of these assumptions that seriously undermine the ability of community-based organizations to introduce routine health outcome measurement. Challenges were identified across all stages of the Donabedian triad, including poor adherence to minimum dataset requirements; difficulties standardizing processes or defining interventions; low rates of use of outcome tools; lack of value of the tools to the service provider; difficulties defining or identifying the end point of an intervention; technical and ethical barriers to accessing data; a lack of standardized processes; and time lags for the collection of data. In no case was the use of outcome measures sustained by any of the teams, although some quality-assurance measures were introduced as a result of the project.