Can Virtual Reality become a solution to adherence and pain management?

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This is one of my last articles on medium. If you’d like to keep in touch you can find me at https://blog.theengineeringcompass.com/

This article provides an insight into the possible applications of virtual reality in healthcare, specifically when it comes to the prevention, adherence and pain management in patients with acute or chronic pain conditions.

We are going to have a look at:

• the process of analgesic in the human body — the pain pathway and the role of opioids
• the neurobiological mechanisms underlying VR
• latest published papers and use cases of VR applications for pain management

The Pain Path and Traditional Solutions

Motivation

Perception of pain is a complex process. Assessment and management can be a challenge. Opioid use for the management of chronic pain has been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource utilisation. (source)

Types of Pain

• Acute pain is caused by an injury to the body. It warns of potential damage that requires action by the brain, and it can develop slowly or quickly. It can last for a few…