Rehab

Virtual reality may bring real relief

Rehab Regs, July 1, 2004

Virtual reality isn't just for video games anymore. Researchers at Ohio University have developed another use for the technology: the diagnosis of back problems. Within the next two years, the team hopes to patent a software and equipment package to be sold to schools that train physical therapists, osteopathic physicians, and other medical practitioners, according to Law & Health Weekly. Using the "Virtual Haptic Back" program, instructors can adjust the type and seriousness of back problems and track students' progress in making correct diagnoses as dysfunctions are made more difficult to find. The term "haptic" refers to the human sense of touch. A long-term goal is to develop an entire virtual haptic body that could be used to train students to diagnose everything from swollen lymph nodes to cervical cancer.

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