Virtual Reality for Acute Pain in Children
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how virtual reality (VR) can reduce pain during medical procedures for children. Researchers will use a special brain imaging tool to study pain responses and relief as children engage in activities like playing a VR game or watching a VR video. The goal is to predict and enhance how VR manages pain. Children who are healthy, not currently experiencing pain, and understand English may be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for children to contribute to innovative research that could improve pain management techniques for future patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants have not taken any pain medication within the past 12 hours before participating.
What prior data suggests that Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy (VR-PAT) is safe for children?
Research shows that Virtual Reality for Pain Relief (VR-PAT) is generally safe for helping children manage sudden pain. Studies have found that VR effectively reduces pain during various medical procedures for kids and lowers their anxiety about these procedures. Most research indicates that VR is well-tolerated, with few reports of negative side effects.
Although VR is not yet widely used for pain management, existing studies highlight its safety and effectiveness. Many parents also feel positive about using VR to relieve their children's pain. Overall, VR-PAT appears to be a promising and safe method for managing pain in children.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy (VR-PAT) for acute pain in children because it offers a novel, non-invasive way to manage pain. Unlike traditional pain relief methods, which often rely on medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, VR-PAT uses immersive virtual reality experiences to distract and engage children, reducing their perception of pain. The active engagement in a VR game may enhance the pain relief effect compared to passive viewing or non-immersive platforms like an iPad. This innovative approach not only aims to minimize the need for medication but also makes pain management interactive and potentially more effective for kids.
What evidence suggests that Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy could be effective for acute pain in children?
This trial will compare different approaches to pain management in children using Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy (VR-PAT). Studies have shown that VR-PAT effectively reduces pain and anxiety in children. Research indicates that VR provides a safe, non-drug method for pain relief during medical procedures. Specifically, VR has been found to lower pain levels and help children focus less on their pain. Evidence suggests VR may outperform traditional methods like distraction and relaxation techniques. Overall, VR-PAT has shown promising results in reducing pain and stress for children in medical settings. Participants in this trial may experience different forms of VR-PAT, including active and passive VR experiences, or compare these to traditional methods like playing a game on an iPad.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Henry Xiang, MD, MPH, PhD, MBA
Principal Investigator
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy children who can participate in a study involving simulated pain and virtual reality. They will be part of an experiment to understand how the brain reacts to pain and if VR can help manage it.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimental Session
Participants undergo a 1-hour research visit involving simulated pain and VR interventions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the experimental session
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy (VR-PAT)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Lead Sponsor