The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality-assisted Hypnosis in Reducing Itch: a Proof-of-concept Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of combining virtual reality (VR) and hypnosis to reduce chronic itch, a condition that causes ongoing discomfort and has limited treatment options. This study focuses on adults aged 18 to 80 who have had persistent, therapy-resistant itch for at least one year and suffer psychological or functional difficulties due to their condition. The aim is to evaluate whether VR-assisted hypnosis (VRH) can lessen itch and its related mental burden compared to a waiting list control group. Participants in the VRH group will attend a total of 8 sessions, including a baseline, 6 intervention sessions, and a follow-up session. During each intervention, they receive hypnotic induction combined with VR immersion designed specifically for chronic itch patients. They also practice guided self-hypnosis at home daily using audio recordings with antipruritic suggestions. The control group will complete baseline, final, and follow-up sessions with questionnaires and itch sensitivity tests but will not receive the VRH treatment during the study period. Throughout the study, participants will complete questionnaires measuring itch intensity, the impact of skin disease on daily life, anxiety and depression symptoms, and medical treatment needs at baseline, after the intervention, and at follow-up about six weeks later. Itch sensitivity tests using cowhage plant particles will also be performed. Researchers will monitor these outcomes to assess the effectiveness of VRH. The total study duration includes these sessions and follow-up assessments, allowing evaluation of both immediate and longer-term effects.

Reducing Itch With Hypnosis and Virtual Reality