Multidimensional Pain Measurement Application Tool
Summary
Robust and Innovative Aid in the Clinical Management of people with chronic pain by applying new assessment to the way pain is measured
Background
Pain and distress are difficult to quantify common to almost all illnesses, and according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), affects more individuals than cancer, heart disease and diabetes combined. Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) are commonly used by medical professionals to evaluate a patient’s condition. However; research shows accurate pain quantification must include other factors such as pain quality, frequency, number of body regions, and temporality of the pain.
Technology Overview
Researchers at Western University have developed a robust and innovative aid in the clinical management of people with musculoskeletal pain, disability, or related conditions by applying new factors to the way pain is measured using a single tool. Through the novel questionnaire and various metrics, paired with in app (or spreadsheet) scoring and computation, healthcare providers can collect more accurate information to aid patients. The multi-dimensional symptom index first asks the patient to categorize the symptom, then asks about frequency of the symptom, and finally asks to rate the intensity. This innovation provides more data than other traditional methods and is more intuitive for patients.
This technology offers more precision over current practice guidelines and acts as a catalyst for the development of pain management strategies using a single tool.
Benefits
• New tool for pain researchers
• Can lead to better practice with respect to pain management decisions
• Improved recovery definition from common musculoskeletal problems
• Enhanced measurement capability can benefit the chronic pain clinical population
• Multi-dimensional and factorial assessment: cognitive interference, depression, fatigue, etc. all factor into the overall quality of health of a patient
• Provides a comprehensive overview of patient’s pain and health status.
• Enhances patient-provider communication.
• Low-cost and easy to implement
Applications
• Point-of-care diagnostics
• Software Application Development
• Medical care
• Rehabilitation
• Pain management
• Chronic pain management
Opportunity
We are seeking a receptor for commercializing and further developing the tool. In addition, there is potential for collaboration to further develop the tool through sponsored research.
Seeking
• Development partner
• Commercial partner
• Seeking investment
