Amputees can be tricked into 'feeling' life-like sensations

Amputees can be tricked into'feeling' life-like sensations from robotic limbs using virtual reality headsets, according to new research. By combining the senses of sight and touch using the VR headset, scientists were able to convince patients a prosthetic hand belonged to their own body. Patients wore virtual reality goggles which showed the index finger of the prosthetic limb glowing at the same point researchers administered artificial touch sensations. This unique combination of sight and sensation convinced people the prosthetic was a natural extension of their own body. The latest findings could revolutionise treatment of maimed members of the Armed Forces and other people who have lost arms or legs, scientists say.