Computer game technology gets patients moving

Published Wednesday, 12 February, 2014 at 12:50 PM

JOINT STATEMENT

Premier
The Honourable Campbell Newman

Minister for Health
The Honourable Lawrence Springborg

Researchers at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital are using computer game technology to help Queensland burns patients and stroke victims significantly improve their mobility and quality of life.

Premier Campbell Newman today opened the Queensland Motion Analysis Centre, which is set to improve patient diagnosis and treatment options.

Led by Dr Robyn Grote, the Motion Analysis Centre will be used by burns patients, stroke victims, patients with acquired neurological disorders and those with other complex mobility problems.

“Queensland is leading Australia in motion analysis and this world-class centre is going to make a real difference to patients,” Mr Newman said

“Reduced mobility has an enormous impact on a person’s confidence and independence. This ground-breaking technology will greatly improve the quality of life for many Queenslanders.

“Investing in innovative technology and research like this is part of our CanDo Government’s commitment to revitalising frontline services and delivering the best possible patient care.”

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said the Centre provided a three dimensional view of a patient, giving the most precise profile of gait and movement.

“Prior to this technology it was much more difficult to get an accurate view of patient abnormalities which led to misdiagnoses, further complications and repeated and sometimes unnecessary procedures,” Mr Springborg said.

“A paediatric motion analysis facility established by Dr Grote has reduced the number of surgical interventions by up to 35 per cent, resulting in a health saving of up to $1 million per child over their lifetime.”

Brisbane University student Finbar Mills has been able to use the technology to learn to walk again after a motor cross accident in 2009 left him a paraplegic.

“They uncovered information about my movement, provided better diagnosis and discovered which muscle wasn’t performing properly and how it affected my gait,” Mr Mills said.

“The process gave me insight into how my body was working and gave my rehabilitation team additional information to target my treatment. I could also view my own progress.”

It’s hoped this technology will provide researchers with an opportunity to create a world-first three dimensional model specifically targeted at treating babies.

[ENDS] 12 February 2014

Media Contact: Premier’s Office: 3719 7000

Minister Springborg: Alexandra Foley 0419 794 294