Study on Using Immersive Virtual Reality Meditation to Relieve Cancer Pain at the Pain Therapy and Palliative Care Service

What this Trial Is About

Cancer is a challenging and widespread disease that often leads to uncontrolled pain and reduced quality of life for many patients who lack access to specialized care. This research investigates how meditation delivered through immersive virtual reality can help cancer patients manage pain and improve their well-being. The study includes a randomized controlled trial to evaluate this meditation method compared to other approaches. Participants are divided into three groups an experimental group using a 7-minute immersive virtual reality mindfulness meditation video with VR glasses and a smartwatch, an active control group viewing a similar meditation video on a cellphone with a smartwatch, and a passive control group performing guided breathing exercises with audio and a smartwatch. All groups practice meditation at home three times a week for four weeks, supported by SMS reminders and self-reporting forms. Throughout the study, participants complete questionnaires on quality of life, psychological health, pain, and symptoms at three time points baseline, after four weeks, and after eight weeks. The smartwatch tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, movement, and distress levels. The main outcomes measured include pain and quality of life over six months, with additional assessments of anxiety, depression, symptoms, and distress. The total study duration for each participant is about two months, with ongoing monitoring using mobile apps and wearable devices.

Meditation With Virtual Reality for Cancer Pain Relief in the Pain Therapy and Palliative Care Service