ScholarWorks > HHS > OT > OJOT > Vol. 12 > Iss. 4 (2024)
Credentials Display
Ramona F. Yazzie, OTD, OTR/L; Kimberly Masker, OTD, OTR/L, CHT; Kristin Biggins, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, CLT
Abstract
The Navajo Nation is one of the many reservations that lack access to health care services, leading to increasing chronic health conditions. Navajo rug weaving is a common creative occupation on the reservation. Navajo rug weaving involves multiple steps in creating a beautiful rug. The multiple steps include repetitive gripping, pinching, reaching, pulling, and prolonged sitting. Therefore, weavers are at risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), preventing individuals from participating in meaningful occupations. Occupational therapists have the skills to provide appropriate education through active listening, visual handouts, and family members. However, occupational therapists must demonstrate and understand cultural sensitivity to address cultural occupations. This article will provide strategies for modeling understanding of the Navajo people, Diné, and rug weaving.
Recommended Citation
Yazzie, R. F., Masker, K., & Biggins, K. (2024). Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders in Navajo Weavers. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 12(4), 1-5. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.2265
Comments
The authors declare that they have no competing financial, professional, or personal interest that might have influenced the performance or presentation of the work described in this manuscript.