Tactile Pain Management by iPhone
“Over the past few years I have really wanted a way to be more analytical and technological with monitoring my patients outcome assessment. I have tried everything from standard forms and progress reports to mailing out weekly spreadsheets which patients fill in and return. All of these are time-consuming. Ironically enough, often patients lose motivation as well and do not always complete or return forms properly. Through this I began to develop an iPhone application that would allow for reminders and a tactile surface to measure their daily outcomes. I am happy to announce that I used my concept for the first time as a prototype today and am very excited about the potential of the application.” Dr Anthony Close
Dr. Anthony Close completed his studies in biology and chemistry from Purdue University prior to completing his Doctorate in Chiropractic at Palmer University in Iowa. While at Palmer, Anthony had a special focus in spinal rehabilitation systems and physiotherapy. Currently, Anthony is a private practitioner in the city of Wellington, New Zealand. In the past, Anthony has internationally lectured and held permanent positions at major universities and various gyms. Anthony’s unique blend of thought between physics, bio-mechanics, physiology and business has lead to a novel approach regarding spinal rehabilitation consultancy.
Often people are quick to blame structural pathology as a site or source of spinal pain. However, research now shows us that often many people with no pain have the same exact pathologies. Moreover, these asymptomatic people make up a large portion of the population. Less than 20% of spinal pain is caused by structural factors (disc herniation, cracked disc, infection, tumor, ect.).
Many people with back pain recover quickly but as time progresses the flare ups become more common and often more painful. A complete analysis that covers movement, motor control, torso endurance and whole body stability is often all that is needed. However, many practitioners never learned how to assess, design, and support systems that encourage proper motor control and motion. In addition, the solution is not as difficult as one may think.
