There has been a lot of studies and articles in the press about the use of Virtual Reality (VR) therapies as a clinical tool to manage both acute and chronic pain and I think this is very interesting.
The theory is that patients suffering from uncontrollable pain can immerse themselves into an interactive virtual reality environment of their choice using VR goggles. For example, using the VR goggles, some patients immerse themselves into tropical blue waters surrounded by beautiful, colourful fish, corals and sea-life and relaxing underwater sounds in the comfort of their own home. The theory is that VR therapies are able to effectively distract patients from the pain they normally suffer and this is not only whilst they are engaged in the VR session but also for several hours afterwards allowing some relief from their symptoms each day. By removing the emotions associated with pain, the brain becomes trained not to respond to pain signals and also changes the patient’s perception of pain.
So far clinical trials in VR therapies are showing very promising results in chronic conditions such as phantom limb pain and regional pain syndromes. Current pain management for these conditions, including opiates and physical therapy, have been very ineffective and so if VR therapy can help it will make a significant difference to the lives of many people including patients who suffer with chronic back or leg pain.
