VR puts patients in an immersive, multisensory three-dimensional environment and can effectively distract patients from their pain, studies suggest.
Five ways VR can benefit patients:
1. Better pain management. Research suggests VR can alleviate acute pain from burns, wounds, childbirth, dental procedures and brief surgeries, said David Patterson, PhD, a professor of psychology at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle.
2. Reduced need for painkillers. For some patients, VR may be effective enough to eliminate painkiller use, including potentially addictive opioids. “If you can capture enough of the brain’s attention, there’s that many fewer neurons [in the brain] to process pain,” Dr. Patterson said. For example, some patients who have used VR to learn breathing and mindfulness techniques have required less medication to alleviate pain.
3. Cost savings. VR use can help curb the costs of prescribing opioids and other prescription medications and reduce the length of hospital stays for some patients, which saves money. Unmanaged pain is a common reason for delayed discharge, so an effective strategy like VR that helps a patient control their pain can lead to a shorter hospital stay.
4. Healthy new skills. For patients experiencing chronic pain, it’s often not about resolving someone’s pain, but about learning new skills to cope with daily discomfort, said Matthew Stoudt, CEO of AppliedVR, a VR platform provider. VR is a useful tool that can speed up learning and enhance retention through cognitive engagement, Mr. Stoudt said. Patients can learn new techniques such as breathing and meditation that help deal with pain.
5. Improved movement. Learning breathing and meditation techniques can help some chronic pain patients manage symptoms, allowing for more physical activity. More physical activity generally promotes healing, said Larry Benz, Louisville, Ky.-based physical therapist. “Chronic pain patients can’t rest,” he said. “We have to get them moving. Movement helps lubricate joints and keeps them working properly; it promotes improved circulation and better range of motion. Physical activity helps your heart and lungs function.”
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