Using virtual reality to treat phantom limb pain
Immersive Healing: The Therapeutic Potential of Virtual Reality in Phantom Limb Experience
This study tests whether virtual reality therapy can help people with phantom limb pain after losing a limb feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Wake Forest University Health Sciences Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charlotte, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT06077227 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the therapeutic potential of virtual reality (VR) therapy for individuals experiencing phantom limb pain (PLP) following major limb amputation. It aims to address the limitations of previous research by utilizing a larger sample size, rigorous methodology, and a standardized treatment protocol. Participants will engage in VR therapy sessions while a matched control group will be monitored for comparison. The study seeks to enhance understanding of the phantom limb experience and improve pain management strategies for amputees.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who have undergone major limb amputation and experience phantom limb pain or negative phantom sensations.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience phantom limb pain or have active mental illnesses, neurological diseases, or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce phantom limb pain and improve the quality of life for amputees.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies exploring VR therapy for PLP have shown positive outcomes, but this study aims to build on those findings with a more robust methodology.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * History of major limb amputation * Age \> 18 years old * Presence of phantom limb pain or negative phantom sensation(s) Exclusion Criteria: * Active mental illness, neurological disease, or cognitive impairment that would interfere with survey completion * Those without phantom limb pain or negative phantom limb sensations * Non-English speaking
Where this trial is running
Charlotte, North Carolina
- OrthoCarolina Hand Center — Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Glenn Gaston, MD — Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute
- Study coordinator: Joshua Steinke
- Email: joshua.steinke@orthocarolina.com
- Phone: 704-942-4351
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.