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The impact of virtual reality on healing and medical practices: Insights

Virtual reality and augmented reality hold significant potential in the health sector. The application of these technologies in healthcare has been growing steadily for several years, showcasing promising prospects.

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Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing the healthcare industry,...
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing the healthcare industry, offering numerous advantages. These technologies have been making strides in the medical field for some time.

The impact of virtual reality on healing and medical practices: Insights

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Transform Healthcare

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have revolutionized various aspects of healthcare, offering promising solutions in mental health, neurorehabilitation, drug design, patient mediation, and awareness raising. These technologies, now widely acknowledged as medical tools, have significantly accelerated progress in the medical field.

Mental Health Applications

Initially employed for treating phobias, VR has since broadened its scope to include exposure therapy for a range of anxiety disorders and PTSD. Patients are immersed in simulated environments mirroring their fears, allowing them to confront these anxieties in a controlled manner. Additionally, VR aids in cognitive behavioral therapy by providing immersive experiences that assist patients in managing their mental health issues [1].

A practical example is the C2Addict tool, which places patients in virtual universes facing their addictions, helping them manage the impulse to use substances. Virtual reality therapies demonstrate better results and a higher rate of engagement compared to traditional therapies [1]. Furthermore, VR is utilized in the training of future medical staff, particularly in psychiatric care, to develop empathy, build self-confidence, and improve adaptability in communication [4].

Advancements in Neurorehabilitation

In physical rehabilitation, VR provides engaging and interactive environments for patients to practice motor skills, enhancing adherence to rehabilitation programs and improving overall outcomes. VR and AR are also applied to cognitive rehabilitation, helping patients improve cognitive functions in the wake of neurological disorders [3].

Drug Design Assistance

While VR and AR do not directly contribute to drug design, they can facilitate drug development by enabling a better understanding of molecular structures and their interactions, which, in turn, enhances the comprehension of drug mechanisms and potential dynamic roles [5].

Improved Patient Mediation and Awareness

Virtual reality is a valuable mediating tool for patients during medical examinations, reducing pain by curating peaceful and reassuring virtual environments. One such example is the Flowly application, which aids in reducing chronic pain and anxiety [4]. In addition, VR is a powerful tool for raising awareness and cultivating empathy. Schizolab offers a unique experience that invites users to experience the emotions of a patient suffering from schizophrenia, leading to a better comprehension of the symptoms and improved understanding among family members [1].

Tools for Doctors and Diagnosis

For doctors, VR is a visualization tool, aiding in the preparation of surgeries, like Dr. Zachary Steinberg's heart surgeries, by providing invaluable insights into the patient's condition and the surgical route [4]. During the COVID-19 pandemic, VR has been instrumental in establishing diagnoses remotely, with the Miiskin application facilitating dermatological self-examinations in skin cancer prevention [4].

In conclusion, the transformative potential of VR and AR has positively impacted numerous medical disciplines. Coupled with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, these immersive technologies serve as valuable allies for medical professionals, offering innovative solutions for the betterment of healthcare provision.

[1] World Economic Forum. (2020). A simulation revolution: Virtual and augmented reality in healthcare. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/reports/a-simulation-revolution-virtual-and-augmented-reality-in-healthcare

[2] Gajewski, K. (2019). How augmented and virtual reality can transform healthcare. Retrieved from https://healthcareitnews.com/news/how-augmented-and-virtual-reality-can-transform-healthcare

[3] Gajewski, K. (2019). Virtual reality and augmented reality in healthcare. Retrieved from https://healthcareitnews.com/news/virtual-reality-and-augmented-reality-healthcare

[4] Hemp, S., & Hemp, K. (n.d.). How virtual reality changes mental health treatment. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/startupnation/2017/05/04/how-virtual-reality-changes-mental-health-treatment/?sh=1c8fdf6f365f

[5] centaurhealth.com. (n.d.). Virtual reality and neurorehabilitation. Retrieved from https://www.centaurhealth.com/virtual-reality-neurorehabilitation/

  1. Virtual reality (VR) and cognitive behavioral therapy work together to help patients manage mental health issues by providing immersive experiences, offering potential for increased engagement and positive outcomes.
  2. In the realm of health-and-wellness, VR is utilized in neurorehabilitation to enhance adherence to rehabilitation programs, thereby improving overall outcomes for patients recovering from physical disabilities and neurological disorders.
  3. With the assistance of VR, virtual reality therapies have shown better results and increased patient engagement compared to traditional therapies, demonstrating a significant role in therapies-and-treatments for mental health concerns like anxiety disorders, PTSD, and substance addictions.

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