Life University creates groundbreaking chiropractic technology with PAT (Palpation and Adjustment Trainer)

Life University (LIFE) is 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, and 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

About Life University

Life University is a health sciences institution most known for its Doctor of Chiropractic program, the largest single-campus chiropractic program in the world. LIFE also offers 15 undergraduate degrees as well as a pre-chiropractic, degree-seeking pathway. Three graduate degrees are available, encompassing areas of sport health science, clinical nutrition and positive psychology. Some degree programs are offered to distance learners through the College of Online Education.

LIFE’s campus in Marietta, Georgia, just northwest of Atlanta, is home to more than 2,700 undergraduate, graduate and professional students who come from all 50 United States and more than 45 countries.

For more information about Life University, visit LIFE.edu.