VR headset trial aims to tame IBD pain without pills

NCT ID NCT06910787

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study tests whether a virtual reality (VR) program can help people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) manage pain and stress. Forty adults with IBD will use a VR headset at home for 4 weeks, doing activities like breathing exercises, meditation, and interactive games. The goal is to see if the program is easy to use and acceptable, and if it reduces pain, anxiety, and the need for pain medication.

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 program (VR-directed BGBT using Oculus Meta Quest 3)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to manage pain and stress for people with IBD.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. It focuses on whether people will use the program, not on proving it works.

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.

inflammatory bowel disease Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States