Escape From Reality

Medical professionals and technology experts are using virtual reality (VR) to treat chronic pain and reduce opioid consumption, reports Mosaic’s Jo Marchant. VR offers the opportunity for those suffering from chronic pain to engage their brain and senses while accommodating physical limitations.
 
A growing number of studies offer encouraging evidence of success, including two small clinical trials of the VR experience “Cool!” Participants in the trials reported a 60%-75% decrease in pain during the VR sessions (compared to baseline) and 30%-50% immediately afterwards.
 
Researchers see the potential to teach long-term coping skills to patients suffering from chronic pain.
 
Source: Mosaic