Using virtual reality to enhance acupuncture treatment for chronic low back pain
Developing a virtual reality guided acupuncture imagery treatment for Chronic low back pain
This study is exploring a new way to help people with chronic low back pain by using virtual reality to create an acupuncture experience in their minds, which might help reduce their pain and improve their daily life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Neuro Technology, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Weston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10695389 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel treatment for chronic low back pain (cLBP) that combines virtual reality with acupuncture imagery. Patients will engage in a guided imagery experience that simulates acupuncture treatment, aiming to activate similar brain pathways as actual acupuncture. The approach is based on the idea that the brain can respond to imagined experiences in ways that may provide pain relief. By participating, patients may experience reduced pain and improved quality of life through this innovative therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic low back pain who have not found relief from traditional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with acute low back pain or those who do not respond to any form of pain management may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from chronic low back pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that combining imagery with acupuncture may yield therapeutic benefits.
Where this research is happening
Weston, United States
- Massachusetts Neuro Technology, INC. — Weston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kong, Jian — Massachusetts Neuro Technology, INC.
- Study coordinator: Kong, Jian
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.