So you’ve heard about XRHealth, or virtual reality, and you’re interested in trying it out … but how does virtual reality work? Why should you try it?
What is Virtual Reality?
VR is a computer-created environment that we can interact with. Using VR headsets to give users a more realistic experience is one way to get involved with this virtual world. When users wearing a VR headset moves, their environment changes, and makes them feel like they are part of a simulated world. It’s like being inside a video game!
The Evolution of VR
VR has been widely used in gaming since its introduction in the mid-90s. VR encounters were only dreamed of, like something in a Sci-Fi movie. Surprisingly, it’s now becoming a part of mainstream entertainment. Experiences feel so natural that users can fully immerse themselves in the VR world. We are now at a point where we are using this technology to address real life health issues.
How does Virtual Reality work?
While we are still discovering the effects of VR, it is believed that it interacts with some areas of the brain, creating new connections that would allow the person to think and act much more quickly and effectively in a similar real life situation.
VR in treating pain
VR has proven to be an effective approach for pain management. A study conducted in the Harborview Medical Centre on burn patients has revealed that the VR offered a distraction from pain. Researchers saw that playing VR games allowed patients to take their focus away from pain, leaving them with less pain.
VR in treating cognitive issues
VR therapy has also been shown to help with cognitive problems such as Alzheimer’s and memory loss. Currently there is no cure for these conditions. A mild cognitive impairment (MCI) study was conducted in mid-2016. In this study, researchers found significant improvements in memory, balance, and concentration among the MCI patients undergoing VR therapy compared to the other patients.
VR promises for the future
Stories like Harborview and MCI studies are becoming more and more common, with the expectation that one day VR therapy will become the leading form of medical treatment. Further investigations are required to understand the full potential of VR in health. Virtual reality may not yet be the mainstream form of treatment. Nevertheless, companies like XR Health are exploring the potentials of VR and its use in the treatment for various forms of pain, cognitive issues and much more.
VR at XR Health
XRHealth offers a wide range of FDA and TGA approved medical applications with its unique ability of providing rehab at home. VR headsets are sent to the clients as soon as they are cleared for VR therapy. Tutorials and avatars are used to give the client a good understanding of the medical applications.
At XRHealth, we ensure that the therapies are functional and most importantly, enjoyable. XRHealth also offers virtual group-based therapies to treat chronic health issues. At XRHealth we ensure that our clients are motivated and can perform VR therapy in their homes with confidence.
