The Potential of Virtual Reality to Improve the Quality of Life for People with Phantom Limb Pain (NON-THESIS)
Date of Award
Summer 6-26-2023
Document Type
Non Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics
Department
Kinesiology
Abstract
Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a common and often debilitating condition that affects people who have lost a limb. It is characterized by pain in a limb that is no longer there. Several treatments are available for PLP, but they are only sometimes practical. For some people, no treatment works. Some people find relief with medication, while others benefit from physical or psychological counseling.
Virtual reality (VR) is a new technology explored as a potential treatment for PLP. VR creates a simulated environment that can immerse a person in a distinct reality. VR can help people with PLP to visualize their missing limb and to move it in a controlled way. VR is a promising new treatment for PLP. It is a non-invasive and safe treatment that can improve the quality of life for people with this condition. More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of VR for PLP, but the results of the studies conducted so far are encouraging.
Keywords: virtual reality, phantom limb pain, quality of life, treatment