Virtual Reality Nature Scenes Show Promise in Reducing Pain Sensitivity

Recent research conducted by the University of Exeter highlights the potential of virtual reality (VR) immersive experiences in alleviating pain, especially in individuals with long-term pain conditions. The study found that viewing natural scenes through VR significantly decreased pain sensitivity, with stronger effects observed in participants who felt a heightened sense of presence during the experience. The investigation involved showing healthy volunteers two types of visual stimuli: immersive 360-degree natural environments via VR and static 2D videos of similar scenes. Participants exposed to VR reported reduced sensations of pain following electric shocks to the forearm, with effects lasting at least five minutes after the VR session ended. The researchers monitored brain activity through MRI scans, discovering that enhanced connectivity in pain-modulating regions correlated with lower pain perception. Interestingly, individuals who reported feeling more immersed and present experienced greater pain relief, suggesting the importance of the sense of presence in therapeutic applications. Dr. Sonia Medina explained that the immersive quality of VR likely amplifies its effectiveness by engaging the brain's intrinsic pain suppression systems. This innovative approach could be particularly valuable for patients unable to access natural environments easily, such as those with mobility issues or long-term health conditions. The findings open avenues for incorporating virtual nature scenes into pain management strategies in healthcare and care settings, providing a non-invasive, accessible form of relief. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-virtual-reality-nature-scenes-ease.html