Virtual reality could help measure and treat cancer pain, study suggests

NCT ID NCT06456411

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study explored whether a wearable brain scanner (fNIRS) could objectively measure pain in cancer patients and survivors. It also tested if virtual reality (VR) relaxation could help reduce pain. The study included 106 participants, including healthy volunteers and cancer patients. The goal was to develop new tools for pain assessment and non-drug pain relief.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Virtual reality relaxation program

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to better, non-drug ways to measure and manage cancer pain, potentially reducing reliance on painkillers.

What could go wrong

The study was terminated early, so results are limited. It was also a small, early-stage study, so findings may not apply broadly.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

breast carcinoma breast neoplasm carcinoma colorectal cancer lung cancer malignant pancreatic neoplasm renal carcinoma renal cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Roswell Park Cancer Institute

    Buffalo, New York, 14263, United States