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-10896861 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how virtual reality can help adults with chronic low back pain feel better and move more, comparing it to regular pain treatments to see which works best for improving their daily lives.
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) | $81,760 |
| NIH project number | 3UH3AR076573-05S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896861 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who experience chronic low back pain and are seeking alternative pain management strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute back pain or those who do not respond to virtual reality interventions 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 affects many adults and can severely impact their quality of life. Participants will engage in VR experiences designed to distract from pain and improve physical activity levels. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of VR against traditional pain management methods, particularly focusing on patient-reported outcomes and overall health improvements. By utilizing immersive technology, the research seeks to provide a non-pharmacological alternative for pain relief.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from chronic low back pain without the risks associated with opioid medications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results for the use of virtual reality in pain management, indicating that this approach could be a viable alternative to traditional therapies.
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.