Virtual-reality worlds filled with penguins and otters are a promising alternative to pain killers, posted on the business news site Quartz.com on 5-2-17, provides a thorough review of the opioid abuse crisis and alternative, evidence-based treatments for chronic pain, including virtual reality (VR) treatments. The author notes that relaxation training can work well, but requires muti-session training programs, practice between appointments, and “in general life gets in the way” for many pain patients. And, many pain patients don’t want a “program,” and are seeking quicker and easier treatments.
Virtual reality-enhanced assessment and therapy – two articles
The American Psychological Association Journal Practice Innovations published “Virtual Reality for Psychological Assessment in Clinical Practice” in the September, 2016 issue. The online blog PsyPost posted “Virtual Reality Training Improves Social Skills in People on the Autism Spectrum” on September 20, 2016.