AcuVR: Enhancing Acupuncture Training Workflow with Virtual Reality

TL;DR

AcuVR is a virtual reality system designed to improve acupuncture training by providing immersive, realistic, and customizable practice scenarios, reducing risks and enhancing learning effectiveness compared to traditional methods.

Contribution

This paper introduces AcuVR, a novel VR-based acupuncture training system that integrates medical imaging and anatomy models for immersive, personalized learning experiences.

Findings

High participant satisfaction in user studies

Effective simulation of acupuncture scenarios

Potential to improve training safety and efficacy

Abstract

Acupuncture is a widely adopted medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and treat various health conditions. Current learning practices heavily rely on 2D atlases and practice on peers, which are notably less intuitive and pose risks, particularly in sensitive areas such as the eyes. To address these challenges, we introduce AcuVR, a Virtual Reality (VR) based system designed to add a layer of interactivity and realism. This innovation aims to reduce the risks associated with practicing acupuncture techniques while offering more effective learning strategies. Furthermore, AcuVR incorporates medical imaging and standardized anatomy models, enabling the simulation of customized acupuncture scenarios. This feature represents a significant advancement beyond the limitations of conventional resources such as atlases and textbooks, facilitating a more immersive and personalized learning experience. The evaluation study with eight acupuncture students and practitioners revealed high participant satisfaction and pointed to the effectiveness and potential of AcuVR as a valuable addition to acupuncture training.