Shafaqna English- A new study from the University of Exeter shows that immersive virtual reality (VR) nature scenes can significantly reduce pain sensitivity, nearly matching the effect of medication. In the study, participants exposed to simulated chronic pain felt less pain after a 45-minute 360-degree VR experience of Oregon’s waterfalls.
In the study, 29 healthy participants were exposed to simulated long-term pain through electric shocks. Those who experienced a 45-minute 360-degree VR film of Oregon’s waterfalls reported reduced sensitivity to pain, both during and after the exposure. In contrast, a 2D video of the same scene was far less effective.
The effect was stronger in those who felt more “present” in the virtual environment. MRI scans confirmed that VR activated brain regions involved in pain suppression. Compared to standard 2D videos, VR had a much greater impact. Researchers suggest this drug-free approach could help manage chronic pain in hospitals and care homes, especially for patients who cannot access real nature.
Source: University of Exeter