Lincoln Memorial University professors and student doctor receive grant from American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine

Three members of the Lincoln Memorial University community have received a grant to study visual spatial awareness and its correlation to palpatory ability using 3D printing technology. The grant, which is for up to $5,000, is expected to help the research team have an impact on the larger osteopathic medicine community.

Natalie Freeman, who is an associate professor of biochemistry and assistant dean of research at the university, is the principal investigator of the grant. She is joined on the project by Anne Marie Zeller, who is an associate professor of family medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine, and Ian Schultheiss, a student doctor in the university’s DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, who will serve as her co-investigators.

According to an article on Lincoln Memorial University’s website, Freeman described the expected impact of their project, saying, “This initiative is expected to have far-reaching implications for osteopathic medical education, potentially benefiting generations of future physicians. It underscores LMU-DCOM's dedication to advancing innovative teaching methodologies and shaping the future of osteopathic medicine.”

The project is building upon an idea that Schultheiss had. Using 3D printing, the team will study the correlations between an individual’s visual spatial awareness and their palpatory ability, or their ability to use their hands and fingers to assess a patient’s skin or body. The project is going to have an effect on the way medical students are prepared for clinical aspects of their education. The team expects their research will be complete in 18 months.

Freeman notes that the project having originated within the idea of a student doctor and proceeding with the assistance of faculty members at Lincoln Memorial University who have different expertise shows the strength of possible collaboration within the DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine.

For more information about Lincoln Memorial University, visit the school’s website.