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Description

To enhance independence in makeup application for women utilizing a tenodesis grasp, Ashley Medina, OTS, in collaboration with Able Faith, Inc., developed and presented a capstone poster outlining a targeted program of adaptive strategies and ergonomic solutions. This program was designed to address the unique functional challenges experienced by women with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) while promoting autonomy and confidence in daily self-care routines.

The experience objectives included: (1) identifying existing adaptive equipment that supports individuals with SCIs in completing makeup application tasks; (2) examining and understanding the roles of interdisciplinary team members working with individuals with SCI in comparison to occupational therapy; (3) comparing barriers to makeup application for women with tenodesis grasp reported in current literature with findings gathered through semi-structured interviews with site participants; and (4) increasing awareness and utilization of self-care evaluations to strengthen knowledge of appropriate occupational therapy assessment methods. These objectives guided both the development and evaluation of the program.

Key project deliverables included a comprehensive digital manual that supports both implementation and long-term sustainability of the program. The manual provides education on proper positioning, energy conservation, and joint protection techniques to reduce strain and improve efficiency. It also includes detailed instruction on the use of adaptive equipment, caregiver education to promote appropriate assistance while maintaining client independence, and step-by-step video demonstrations illustrating how to modify the makeup routine. Additionally, a curated list of recommended tools, including cost breakdowns and purchasing links, was provided to improve accessibility and ease of replication.

Overall, this program demonstrates how occupational therapy interventions can effectively bridge the gap between physical limitations and functional independence through the integration of adaptive equipment and client-centered strategies (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2020). Furthermore, it highlights the importance of addressing meaningful and often overlooked activities of daily living, such as makeup application, to support identity, self-esteem, and quality of life. By promoting inclusive and adaptive approaches to self-care, this program contributes to a more holistic understanding of independence and participation for individuals with SCIs.

Publication Date

Spring 4-2026

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Women, Tenodesis grasp, Ergonomic, Activities of daily living, Occupational therapy, Makeup, Quality of life, Grooming, Adaptive, Goal

Medical Subject Headings

Tenodesis grasp, Quality of life, Grooming, Occupational therapy, Activities of daily living

Disciplines

Art and Design | Disability and Equity in Education | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 22, 2026.

Optimizing Makeup Application Techniques for Women with Tenodesis: Adaptations and Ergonomic Solutions

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