[Objective] The study was conducted to “visualize” the techniques of finger pressure and objectivize the techniques of the same kind while focusing on the changes in the pressure-receiving areas over time. The previous studies implemented until last year revealed clearly distinguishable results between qualified practitioners and beginners through quantification and visualization of the pressure-receiving areas. However, due to the small number of subjects, the results of the studies were kept in the realm of hypothesis. In this study, the analysis software was improved, the number of subjects was increased, and the practicality of the device was reexamined for further improvement.

[Methods] Six qualified finger-pressure practitioners and 20 physical therapy students performed finger-pressure techniques using a finger-pressure simulator made based on the body-pressure distribution measurement device, SR Soft Vision, developed by Sumitomo Riko. In addition, using the obtained video data, changes in the pressure-receiving areas over time were measured and analyzed by DIPP-Macro II, particle image measurement and macro processing software created by DITECT.

[Results] The subjects of qualified finger-pressure therapists consisted of four men and two women with an average age of 56.8 (median : 61) years old and an average clinical experience of 26.1 (median : 27.5) years with five right-handed and one left-handed. As for physical therapy students, all of them were male aged 20.9±1.07 years old with 18 right-handed and two left-handed. Regarding the average bilateral difference in (1) total area, (2) average area and (3) maximum area for five-time performance of finger-pressure techniques, qualified finger-pressure practitioners recorded (1) 3,957-12,5891 (72,799.2±48,319.4), (2) 8-209 (132.2±83.7) and (3) 8-337 (195.7±129) (units of the numbers are mm2). Meanwhile, physical therapy students were (1) 10,094-304,341 (74,023.2±68,378.6), (2) 19-544 (140.9±124.6) and (3) 22-828 (195±170.5).

[Discussion] As a result no obvious difference in skill was observed between a finger-pressure practitioners and a physical therapy student. however, some finger-pressure practitioners showed results that may exceed the accuracy of the equipment. this study suggests that the position of the techniques of finger pressure and the physical condition of each subject have a large influence.

  Biofeedback is a highly effective technique with great potential. However, its development has been hampered by the high human and financial costs, which make it difficult to undergo training without visiting specialized facilities such as hospitals. In this study, we developed a new low-cost device that allows easy skin temperature biofeedback training without location constraints, using open-source hardware like Arduino microcomputers and digital fabrication equipment.

  We focused on five key aspects during the prototype development. First, we designed a lightweight and compact strap-type device, powered by batteries, enabling users to conduct training freely at any time and place. Next, by utilizing easily accessible components, Arduino microcomputers, and digital fabrication equipment, we made it possible to produce this device at a lower cost than conventional biofeedback devices, allowing the use of multiple devices simultaneously. Additionally, we adopted a slide switch that allows users to easily toggle between light and sound feedback, enabling them to adjust the feedback type based on their preferences and environment. Furthermore, we adjusted the software to aim for automated management of the resting period. Lastly, to help users easily understand the operation and training methods, we provided a system that allows them to review the operation procedures at any time.

  This development has broadened the potential for more people to incorporate skin temperature biofeedback training into their daily lives, thus expanding the reach of biofeedback benefits. Future applications and improvements are expected.

  This symposium is an independent symposium organized by the International Exchange Committee that has been held continuously. Each of the three speakers shared their “First Task” (the first big challenge they faced) and how they tackled that task and connected it to their “Mission” in life. Ikegami explained how he overcame his illness and the importance of data measurement and how he understood growth from that experience. He introduced how these experiences have led to the growth of his own marketing company. Nakano is an orthopedic surgeon who works as a team doctor for a professional soccer team (Akinori Yamamoto, Naoki Matsuda, and Naruhiko Tsutsumi are co-presenters). In order for athletes to perform at their best, it is important to prevent injuries and breakdowns and to manage their physical and mental health on a daily basis. This is also common to the care of the elderly, and he explained that it is important to diagnose what is “dysfunctional & non-painful (G. Cook, 2014)” early and take measures against such non-painful dysfunctions. Oikawa, who served as speaker and coordinator, introduced his journey from his experience as a medical staff member at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games to his new role as a classifier for para-athletics (a position that determines the class in which athletes can participate). Through the three presentations at the symposium, it was pointed out that the collaboration between medicine, engineering, and psychology is crucial, and that this is similar to the approach taken toward clients and patients in the field of biofeedback.