Understanding the use of leap motion touchless device in physiotherapy and improving the healthcare system in India

Abstract

Since early 2000 there is a constant need to build a strong healthcare innovation engine to allow researchers from multi-disciplinary field to develop innovative products in the healthcare sector. Many western countries have adopted the use of innovative products in the form of mobile/web technologies and wearable devices to improve their healthcare system. Interestingly, a wearable device called MYO Armband is being adopted in the physiotherapy treatment and few studies show doctors and patients are interested in using the device but due to MYO's cumbersome nature, we decided to consider non-wearable device(s) for the treatment. Recently, we identified a touchless device (non-wearable) called “Leap Motion”, which is used for gaming systems and controlling applications in mobiles and computers. A sudden spark made us think the Leap Motion could be used in the physiotherapy treatment and we also, spotted interesting web applications which could potentially be used along with the device. We conducted workshops with the UK and Indian doctors and common people to understand the Leap Motion's use in physiotherapy and set some guidelines in using the device. Though the methodology of using workshops and survey responses collected to analyze is not the strongest of research methodologies, we tried to generalize the outcomes and recommendations, and the stimulating discussions with the doctors and practitioners helped us address ten-points to improve the healthcare system in India.