virtual reality Clinical Trials and Research
Also known as: vr therapy, immersive technology, extended reality (xr), augmented reality (ar), digital therapeutics
Virtual reality (VR) is a technology, not a medical condition. In healthcare, VR is being researched as an innovative tool to help diagnose, treat, or manage various medical conditions. Clinical trials are exploring its potential across many fields, and Find a Trial helps patients search for active studies using VR.
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Common questions about virtual reality clinical trials
What is virtual reality in a medical context?
In medicine, virtual reality uses computer-generated simulations to create immersive experiences for patients or healthcare providers. This technology can simulate real-world or imaginary environments, allowing users to interact within them. It's being studied as a therapeutic intervention or a diagnostic aid for various health challenges, according to data from ClinicalTrials.gov.
What medical conditions are being studied with virtual reality?
Virtual reality is being explored for a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety disorders, stroke rehabilitation, PTSD, and even surgical training. Researchers are investigating its use in physical therapy, cognitive therapy, and distraction therapy for painful procedures. Data from NIH RePORTER shows diverse applications under investigation.
How is virtual reality used in clinical trials?
In clinical trials, VR might be used to deliver specific therapies, such as exposure therapy for phobias, or to provide engaging rehabilitation exercises. It can also serve as a diagnostic tool to assess cognitive function or balance. Some studies use VR for patient education or to reduce stress during medical procedures.
Who can participate in clinical trials using virtual reality?
Eligibility for a VR clinical trial depends entirely on the specific medical condition being studied and the trial's design. Each study has unique criteria regarding age, diagnosis, health status, and other factors. Patients interested in participating should review the detailed eligibility requirements for each trial on platforms like ClinicalTrials.gov.
What are the phases of clinical trials involving virtual reality?
Clinical trials involving virtual reality follow the same phases as other medical research: Phase 1 (safety), Phase 2 (efficacy and side effects), Phase 3 (compare to standard treatments), and Phase 4 (post-market surveillance). The VR intervention is evaluated at each stage to ensure its safety and potential benefits for patients.
Are there any risks or side effects of using virtual reality in a trial?
While generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects like motion sickness, dizziness, eye strain, or disorientation when using VR. These effects are usually temporary. Researchers carefully monitor participants for any adverse reactions and provide guidance on safe usage, as detailed in study protocols on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Do clinical trials using virtual reality cost money to participate?
Typically, participants in clinical trials do not pay for the experimental intervention or study-related medical care. However, costs for travel, lodging, or non-study medical care are usually the participant's responsibility. It's important to discuss potential costs with the research team before joining a study.
Where can I find clinical trials using virtual reality?
You can find clinical trials investigating virtual reality by searching databases like ClinicalTrials.gov, which is maintained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Find a Trial also provides a user-friendly way to search for active studies. You can use keywords like 'virtual reality' or 'VR therapy' to explore relevant research.
How to find a virtual reality trial that fits you
- Describe your virtual reality situation in detail — stage if applicable, prior treatments, age, and other relevant conditions.
- Use the location filter (worldwide, US, US & Canada, Europe) to narrow to trials near you.
- Review each trial's eligibility criteria carefully. Save 2–5 candidates with their NCT numbers.
- Discuss with your treating clinician before contacting the research site.
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