JustPhysio, Physio Jobs

Student creates new aid for physiotherapists

Thursday 28th August 2008

People with physiotherapy jobs may soon be able to utilise a new piece of equipment designed to assist stroke victims.

PhD student Wendy Powell, who is conducting her research at the University of Portsmouth, has created a virtual reality physiotherapy treatment which is designed to trick patients into believing they are walking more slowly than they are.

She stated: "The virtual system encourages patients to walk more quickly and for longer, almost without them realising it. We're effectively fooling the brain and the body."

Ms Powell added that the environment created by the technology is entertaining and stimulating, suggesting that using the system may reduce the pain experienced by patients.

Meanwhile, the Lancashire Evening Post recently reported that pharmacists working at the Royal Preston and Chorley and South Ribble hospitals are also to be assisted by technology, with electronic systems being installed at the centres to improve the accuracy of the drug dispensing process, among other things.