The University of South Australia is conducting research on how virtual reality (VR) can be used to help individuals suffering from chronic and persistent pain. The innovative therapy, named “Superhero Therapy,” involves using VR technology and superhero avatars to help patients manage and alleviate their pain.
Chronic pain affects approximately one in five people in Australia. While there are various management strategies available, there is currently no cure for chronic pain. This has led researchers, led by Dr. Daniel Harvie, to explore new and innovative ways to tackle this issue.
Dr. Harvie, who is also the recipient of the 2023 SA Young Tall Poppy of Science award, believes that combining brain science with VR technology holds the key to addressing persistent pain. He explains that pain is usually triggered by an injury, but in some cases, it can persist even after the body is healed.
The concept behind Superhero Therapy is to allow individuals with chronic pain to “swap” their real body with that of a superhero in the virtual world. By assuming the persona of a powerful superhero like the Incredible Hulk, patients can convince their brain and nervous system that they are invincible, healed, and no longer in pain.
The virtual reality experience involves synchronizing the visual representation of the patient’s virtual superhero body with their real body movements. This synchronization triggers an update in the brain-held representations of the patient’s body, shifting from pain promoting to pain suppressing. As a result, patients immediately feel stronger, more agile, and more resilient.
Initial results from the research indicate that when individuals enter the virtual reality world, their attention is diverted from their pain, leading to a reduction in pain symptoms. Much like learning any skill, the more patients engage in the VR therapy, the better the results.
Dr. Harvie recognizes the potential of VR therapy in revolutionizing pain management. He sees virtual reality as an exceptional tool for targeting the brain and altering perceptions, which can help retrain the nervous system and address the challenges faced by individuals with chronic pain.
The ongoing research conducted by the University of South Australia’s team is at the forefront of a new era in pain management. Dr. Harvie envisions a future where VR becomes an integral part of physiotherapy and occupational therapy clinics, providing a core component of pain management for patients.
With the incredible advancements in technology and the potential of VR therapy, it is possible that individuals suffering from chronic pain may soon have a powerful tool to alleviate their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. The University of South Australia’s research is paving the way for this potential breakthrough and offers hope to those living with chronic pain.
