Simulation and Education Tool for Physical Examinations of Orthopedic Pathologies

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Project Summary/Abstract The proposed project focuses on creating a simulation system that provides hands-on skills training of musculoskeletal, soft tissue, and ligament function for medical and health science students. Significance: Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders are the most frequent chronic health problems in the United States. Despite this reality, education in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of MSK disorders and injuries is underrepresented in entry level training and postgraduate residency programs leaving primary care providers underprepared. Multiple studies have confirmed that students lack competency in this domain, having difficulty performing and interpreting the results of MSK examinations, leading to reduced patient outcomes. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that the creation and availability of a new simulation system can address this problem by supporting enhanced learning interactions and increasing knowledge transfer for clinical education. Specific Aims: A Fast-Track project is proposed where the Phase I aims will be to: 1) Consult with expert advisory panel and perform final independent evaluation, 2) Prototype knee joint mannequin materials/mechanical design, and 3) Develop simulation electronics and functionality. If the Phase I meets its transition criteria of success the follow-on Phase II program will: 1) Collect expert feedback on design and educational utility, 2) Perform additional skeletal/joint engineering and implement a suite of simulation curricula, and 3) Validate the system utility through human subject testing and expert evaluation.