VR goggles beat opioids for Post-Surgery pain?

NCT ID NCT05868369

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using a virtual reality headset for 30 minutes after hip surgery could reduce pain better than standard painkillers. Seventy adults undergoing hip arthroscopy were given either VR sessions or usual care. Researchers measured pain, anxiety, and nausea to see if VR offers a helpful, drug-free option.

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 (iVR) sessions

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to manage pain after hip surgery, reducing reliance on opioids.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with only 70 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The pain relief from VR may be short-lived or less effective than standard medication.

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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As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Kerlan Jobe

    Los Angeles, California, 90045, United States