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Millions of people suffer from chronic pain due to ongoing illness or injury. When someone is in constant pain with only small bouts of relief here and there, the mind is never allowed to fully disconnect from the pain unless medications or therapies are present. Unfortunately, reliance on pain relievers like opioids have the potential to create addictions and other long term medications can have unintended negative effects.
Virtual reality, or VR, is emerging as an unlikely, but effective therapy to aid in allowing pain relief to those who live with various ailments such as fibromyalgia, joint, and muscle pain. When we think of virtual reality, we tend to liken it to technology that is only for video games or entertainment purposes, however the technology's dissociative properties have proven to give reprieve for patients experiencing pain.
Early studies of VR as a pain management therapy were used in the treatment of chronic lower back pain. In 2021 the FDA approved an at home VR therapy, RelieVRx, for chronic lower back pain. This approval lead researchers to study what other chronic pain illnesses could be alleviated with the application of the technology. During a VR session, patients are immersed in a world with guided meditation, a focus on mindfulness, and relaxation that can take them worlds away from the pain they experience. Programs range from exploring real places like exotic locations, famous sites, or under water adventures, to fantasy worlds where users can play short games that help them practice calmness and mindfulness. The therapy aims to help the patient turn their attention away from pain and discomfort and towards serenity. Ultimately, the patient will begin to make more positive connections outside of the VR sessions over the course of time. VR therapy is now being used to help redirect patient's focus during cancer treatments, labor, or other painful treatments.
Although there is still much research to be completed, early studies prove how promising this technology can be. Researchers are hopeful to not only apply this technology further for pain treatment, but for other issues like anxiety and various mental health disorders. With the development of new VR technology for medical use, the FDA is creating guidelines for bringing this technology further to market.
