Using virtual reality to reduce pain and improve satisfaction during knee nerve treatment

The Effect of Virtual Reality on Pain and Patient Satisfaction in Adults Receiving Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation

NA · University of California, Irvine · NCT05468398

This study is testing if using virtual reality can help people feel less pain and more satisfied during a knee nerve treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment67 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, Irvine (other)
Locations1 site (Irvine, California)
Trial IDNCT05468398 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of virtual reality therapy (VRT) on pain management and patient satisfaction during the genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation (GNRFA) procedure. By immersing patients in a virtual environment, the study aims to provide cognitive distraction from pain and anxiety associated with the procedure. The GNRFA is a minimally invasive treatment for knee pain that involves applying radiofrequency waves to specific nerves. The study will assess whether the use of VRT enhances the overall patient experience and reduces pain perception during the procedure.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled to undergo genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation.

Not a fit: Patients who require sedation, have cognitive impairments, or experience motion sickness may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve pain management and patient satisfaction during knee treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using virtual reality for pain management, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged 18 or older
* Patients Undergoing a genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation
* Patients who have previously received nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation procedures may be included

Exclusion Criteria:

* Requiring sedation during procedure
* Cognitive impairment or dementia
* History of recent stroke, epilepsy, psychosis, or claustrophobia
* Blindness or deafness
* Refusal to use the headset
* Isolation status for infection control
* Motion sickness or active nausea/vomit
* Pregnancy (Pregnancy testing point of care available for females of child bearing age)

Where this trial is running

Irvine, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Pain, Patient Satisfaction, Genicular Nerve Block, Virtual Reality, Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation, GNRFA

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.