Virtual reality may reduce opioid use in teens after back surgery

NCT ID NCT06101264

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Connecticut Children's Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) before physical therapy sessions could help teens aged 13-18 feel less pain and need fewer opioids after scoliosis surgery. Twenty participants were split into two groups: one received VR sessions before therapy, the other did not. Researchers measured pain levels and total opioid use during recovery.

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 sessions
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to ease pain and reduce opioid use during recovery from scoliosis surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 20 participants. The effect may be small or not apply to all patients. VR may cause side effects like dizziness in some users.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Connecticut Children's Medical Center

Hartford, Connecticut, 06106, United States

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