Using virtual reality to help manage irritable bowel syndrome symptoms
Clinical Impact and Feasibility of Virtual Reality (VR) for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing VR Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. Sham VR
This study is looking at whether a virtual reality program that offers therapy can help people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) manage their tummy pain and feel better overall, making it a convenient option for those who might not have easy access to traditional therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140550 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a virtual reality (VR) program that delivers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study compares this VR CBT approach to a sham VR experience to determine its clinical impact and feasibility. Patients will engage with a self-administered, home-based VR program over an 8-week period, aiming to help them manage chronic abdominal pain and improve their quality of life. The research addresses the shortage of CBT-trained clinicians by providing an accessible alternative for IBS management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome who experience chronic abdominal pain and seek alternative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with IBS who are already receiving effective treatment or those who do not have access to VR technology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel, effective, and accessible treatment option for patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that cognitive behavioral therapy is effective for IBS, but the use of virtual reality as a delivery method is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Almario, Christopher V — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Almario, Christopher V
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.