VR headset may make you forget words—and pain
NCT ID NCT07183839
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether immersive virtual reality can distract people and affect their memory. Twenty healthy adults tried to remember words while in VR or while watching a plain video. Researchers also measured pain ratings during mild heat stimulation. The goal was to see if VR could reduce pain and anxiety by capturing attention.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Immersive Virtual Reality
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help develop VR-based methods to reduce pain and anxiety during medical procedures by distracting the brain.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early-stage study with only 20 healthy volunteers. Results may not apply to patients or real-world medical settings.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of Washington
Seattle, Washington, 98195, United States