Using virtual reality to help manage chronic low back pain
Official title: Randomized-controlled trial of virtual reality for chronic low back pain to improve patient-reported outcomes and physical activity
Funded at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-10683125 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring whether using virtual reality can help adults with chronic low back pain feel better and move more easily, comparing it to regular pain treatments like opioids, so you can see if this fun new approach might work for you!
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2019 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $621,894 |
| NIH project number | 5UH3AR076573-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10683125 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who suffer from chronic low back pain and are seeking alternative pain management options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute back pain or those who do not have access to VR technology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of virtual reality (VR) as a treatment for chronic low back pain (cLBP), a condition that significantly affects many adults. Participants will engage with VR technology that immerses them in lifelike environments, which may help reduce their perception of pain and improve their overall quality of life. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of VR against traditional pain management methods, particularly opioids, to determine if VR can provide lasting relief and enhance physical activity. By participating, patients may experience a novel approach to pain management that could lead to better outcomes without the risks associated with opioid use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-pharmacological alternative for managing chronic low back pain, reducing reliance on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results for the use of virtual reality in pain management, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spiegel, Brennan — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Spiegel, Brennan
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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.