Virtual Reality for Chronic Pain in Physiotherapy An Experimental Case Study

Chronic pain affects up to 40% of individuals worldwide, contributing to a significant disease burden and negative socioeconomic consequences. Adequate pain management is often challenging or delayed. Virtual reality (VR) can support the cognitive and psychological aspects of pain therapy. The study aimed to investigate the effects of VR on health-related outcomes and the subjective experience of VR within the context of outpatient physiotherapy in Germany. An experimental single-case study in an AB design with follow-up was conducted. Additionally, a structured episodic interview was conducted. Qualitative and quantitative data were triangulated. No significant changes in primary outcomes were observed. Descriptively, clinically relevant improvements were noted in secondary patient-reported outcomes. During the interview, the participant reported subjective enhancements in well-being along with a mild reduction in pain perception. He could shift his perception of pain through VR therapy. Distraction and relaxation techniques practiced through VR were considered particularly helpful. Activities were less affected by pain, and medication intake could be reduced. The implementation of the VR intervention occurred as planned, with no structural or staffing barriers observed. In the participant's subjective experience, the VR intervention was perceived as advantageous. Therefore, VR intervention could represent a promising addition to the physiotherapeutic care of individuals with chronic pain.