If you are reading this post, you are likely as excited as I am about the new VR (virtual reality) device approved by the FDA. In November of 2021, the FDA approved a new VR device for treatment of low back pain, EaseVRx. This is an exciting new treatment option that could change the future of back pain treatment.
In this post, we will review how this new FDA-approved VR device will help lower medical costs while improving patient outcomes; and what it all means for the future. Let's dive in!
What is EaseVRx?
EaseVRx is an FDA-approved virtual reality device used in the treatment of chronic low back pain. It is the only VR-based device currently used in the treatment of low back pain1. It utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to help change how we think about pain and help us develop coping mechanisms to treat chronic pain.
The EaseVRx dynamic platform offers pain treatment through education, pain distraction, relaxation, mindful escapes, and dynamic breathing1. Clinically proven, it’s a non-invasive treatment option for those suffering from back pain longer than three months. According to EaseVRx’s recommendations, people should use the device seven days per week for a total of eight weeks. Patients can use the device from the comfort of their own homes, hassle-free.
Efficacy of EaseVRx
A study conducted in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) looked at the efficacy of EaseVrx through a randomized double-blind clinical trial in December 20202. Participants had to meet the criteria of nonmalignant lower back pain for greater than six months with an average pain rating of at least four out of 102. The study separated the 179 participants into two groups; the first group used the EaseVrx 3D system while the second used a placebo 2D VR system. The participants used each VR system daily for eight weeks, for a total of 56 treatment sessions 2.
Now to the exciting part! The results yielded both higher user ratings and better pain outcomes in the EaseVRx system when compared to the placebo VR system 2. User ratings refer to participants’ satisfaction with using the product. More significantly, 66% of EaseVRx users reported a pain reduction of more than 30%, compared to only 41% placebo users 2. Other findings included EaseVRx users experienced a 42% reduction in pain intensity, 49% reduction in pain with activity, a 52% reduction in pain with sleep, and 57% reduction in pain with stress 2.
