Could a VR headset ease sickle cell pain?

NCT ID NCT07674277

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study explores whether using a virtual reality headset can help reduce pain for adults with sickle cell disease during a painful crisis. Participants will try different types of headset experiences—like watching a 2D video or exploring a 3D world—during their infusion center visits. Researchers will measure pain levels and how well people tolerate the headset to see if this approach is worth studying further.

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 headset

What this could lead to

If effective, virtual reality could offer a drug-free way to reduce pain during sickle cell crises, potentially lowering opioid use.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study with only 25 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The effect on pain may be minimal or no better than a placebo.

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.

sickle cell disease Vaso-Occlusive Crises

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Maryland Medical Center, Stoler Infusion Center

    Baltimore, Maryland, 21230, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••