How VR Technology Can Ease Pain in Medical Procedures

In an era marked by relentless technological advancement, one innovation that has revolutionized various industries, including healthcare, is virtual reality (VR). VR technology immerses individuals in computer-generated environments, offering a multisensory experience that goes beyond traditional screens. It is particularly noteworthy for its potential applications in the medical field, where it has demonstrated promising outcomes in alleviating pain, anxiety,  and enhancing patient experiences during medical procedures. The immersive nature of VR allows users to engage with simulated environments, diverting attention from the physical discomfort associated with medical interventions. Hence, this MIT Technology Review article highlights how VR technology can possibly be used as a pain relief strategy during medical procedures.

The article discusses the use of VR technology, such as Smileyscope, to alleviate pain and anxiety during medical procedures, particularly for children undergoing blood draws or IV insertions. According to the article, Smileyscope’s underwater adventure, guided by an animated character named Poggles the Penguin, has received FDA clearance and has demonstrated a significant reduction in self-reported pain levels (up to 60%) and anxiety levels (up to 40%) in clinical trials involving over 200 children aged 4 to 11. Additionally, the article highlights the complexity of how VR works in pain management, suggesting that it goes beyond mere distraction by influencing the brain’s pain signal processing mechanisms.

The use of VR technology extends to chronic pain management, as seen in the FDA-authorized RelieVRx, designed to teach pain relief strategies through mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The article concludes by emphasizing the potential benefits of VR in making medical procedures less traumatic, particularly for those with chronic pain or anxiety, though acknowledging associated risks such as nausea and motion sickness.

As the medical community explores the therapeutic benefits of VR technology, its scope expands beyond procedural support to chronic pain management, making it a transformative tool for enhancing both physical and psychological aspects of patient care. Read through the preceding text to get to know more.