Virtual Reality System Authorized for Easing Back Pain

All those who’ve been victims of persistent back pain can now heave a sigh of relief as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved virtual reality (VR) system for minimizing lower back pain, manufactured by Applied VR, a software developer.

The device, EaseVRx, uses cognitive behavioral therapy and other related approaches to help with pain reduction. Lower back pain is one of the most common chronic pain conditions in the U.S.

It comprises a VR headset and a controller, along with a breathing amplifier attached to the headset for use in deep breathing workouts. The treatment comprises 56 VR sessions, 2-16 minutes long, with an eight-week treatment program.

The device was approved based on test results that assessed 179 patients, where about 65pc of the patients exhibited a greater than 30pc decrease in pain.

Applied VR is currently developing several virtual reality devices for ailments including anxiety and general pain.

In 2020, a small study proposed that engagement in virtual reality may relieve some of the pain of contractions prior to childbirth.