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UNIVERSITY RESEARCH UPDATE
Life University Creates
Groundbreaking Chiropractic
Technology with PAT ( Palpation and Adjustment Trainer )
Life University is yet again leading the way in chiropractic education with the creation of PAT ( Palpation and Adjustment Trainer ). Developed by the University ’ s Dr . Sid E . Williams Center for Chiropractic Research ( CCR ), PAT is an anatomically accurate , technology-based mannequin with the look , feel , size and weight of an average person .
PAT allows students to study the biomechanics of the chiropractor ’ s most important tool , the adjustment . Embedded pressure sensors measure location of contact on the mannequin as internal controls create intersegmental fixation at specific spinal regions . PAT will help students learn to locate vertebral landmarks by palpation , find restricted motion and perform adjustments with controlled amounts of force and speed , along a specific vector . The complete system shows student performance in comparison to a benchmark . PAT allows students to receive immediate , objective feedback about the “ where , how hard , how fast and in which direction ” part of adjusting to develop these important skills necessary for care of patients .
Key features of PAT :
• 3D-printed spine , pelvis and occiput surrounded by viscoelastic skin and soft tissue .
• 64 pressure sensors at key spinal landmarks from EOP to pelvis and sacrum .
• Software monitors pressure levels at each sensor and shows location of contact on screen .
• Location labels on computer screen can be turned on or off .
• Ability to zoom in to specific regions on computer screen .
• Screen indicates heavy or light forces , which can have sensitivity modified .
• Strong enough to withstand thrusts , and when paired with force plate table or glove , can measure force profiles .
• Individual thoracic segments can be fixated . Right or left fixation capabilities within lumbar and cervical regions .
Sr . Research Scientist Dr . Ed Owens ( top left ), Research Faculty Dr . Brent Russell ( top right ) and other Research staff , faculty and students performing adjustments on PAT
Alumni . LIFE . edu | 2020
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