A Review of Haptic Technology Applications in Healthcare
Ilman Shazhaev, Dimitry Mihaylov, Abdulla Shafeeg
Abstract
Regaining lost abilities via the formation of new neural pathways as a result of extensive practice and retraining is a key feature of the rehabilitation process. However, patient boredom is a big issue in rehabilitation owing to the extensive practice that is necessary. Awareness of the value of haptic (touch-enabled) interfaces in computer applications has grown because to the emergence of games with buzzing joysticks and consumer electronics with touchpads. Some forms of haptics, however, are paving the way for cutting-edge computer-based rehabilitation solutions, such as “serious games,” which are only one use of haptics’ potential to enhance clinical treatment. In this paper, we aim to review the methods and technologies of haptic feedback that are used for medical treatment and rehabilitation. Developing and innovating better haptic feedback technology has the potential to expand and improve access to virtual healthcare such as the doctor being able to “feel” a patient’s tumor from miles away by being paired with robotic devices.