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Interacting with virtual objects via embodied avatar hands reduces pain intensity and diverts attention
1The Virtual Reality Analgesia Research Center at the Human Photonics Lab, University of Washington, Box 352142, Seattle, WA, USA. Hoontair@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|May 22, 2021
Summary
Interacting with virtual reality (VR) using embodied avatar hands reduced pain perception and unpleasantness. This immersive VR experience also decreased attention, suggesting a mechanism for VR
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) shows potential for pain management.
- Cognitive factors influencing VR analgesia require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the impact of embodied avatar interaction in VR on pain perception.
- To investigate the role of attention in VR-induced analgesia.
Main Methods:
- A within-subject randomized crossover study with 24 healthy participants.
- Comparison of interactive embodied avatar VR versus passive VR during thermal pain stimuli.
- Assessment of pain ratings and performance on a divided attention task.
Main Results:
- Interactive embodied avatar VR significantly reduced pain intensity, unpleasantness, and pain rumination.
- Participants reported greater enjoyment during interactive VR.
- Increased errors on the divided attention task were observed during interactive VR.
Conclusions:
- Embodied avatar interaction in VR enhances the sense of presence and VR analgesia.
- Attention mechanisms likely contribute to VR's pain-reducing effects.
- VR offers a promising avenue for non-pharmacological pain management.
