JPO 1993 Vol. 5, Num. 4

100
Foreword
C. Michael Schuch, CPO, FISPO
 
101
Clinical Research
Thomas R. Lunsford, MSE, CO
The current state-of-the-art in clinical O&P research is the result of more than 200 years of developments. Basic concepts and categories of clinical research are discussed as well as the essential elements of research such as interventions and contr...
 
105
Types of Clinical Studies
Thomas R. Lunsford, MSE, CO
Experimental and descriptive research in O&P are the focus of this article. The author discusses the concept of validity as a prerequisite for understanding experimental design as well as pertinent experimental designs.
 
112
Getting Started in Prosthetic-Orthotic Research
Thomas M. Gavin, CO
Avinash G. Patwardhan, PhD
The organization of research projects, including identifying problems, forming and testing the hypothesis, and drawing statistical and significant conclusions is discussed as an introduction to conducting O&P research. Common errors and project desig...
 
115
Researching Published Information
John W. Michael, MEd, CPO, FISPO
Careful review of published information and previous studies is the foundation for credible scientific research. Methods to search out O&P literature are highlighted.
 
121
Methodology: Variables and Levels of Measurement
Brenda Rae Lunsford, MS, PT
The author examines and defines different types of variables and elaborates on their use and misuse in published research. Converting observations into measurable quantities-also known as properties or variables-is also discussed.
 
125
Statistics: Screening and Data Summary
Brenda Rae Lunsford, MS, PT
Carefully collecting and analyzing data ensures meaningful results. This article presents the first two steps in the statistical management of data: proofing and screening. Common errors in data collection and analyzing are also discussed.
 
131
Practical Clinical Measures
Donald G. Shurr, PT, CPO
Understanding the components of the scientific process is vital for consistent and accurate reporting of results. Only when practitioners understand the process can meaningful clinical research occur. The author presents ways to ensure accurate repor...
 
134
Funding Research and Development in Orthotics and Prosthetics
Maurice LeBlane, MS, CP
Sources and methods of obtaining funding for O&P research and development are discussed, including obtaining federal and private grants.