The Department of Veterans Affairs is turning to virtual reality technology as a new way to help Veterans manage chronic pain by focusing on non-drug treatments that can be used at home. The initiative is part of the VA Immersive program, which combines cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and pain education through guided virtual reality experiences.
Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting longer than three months, affects many Veterans and can make everyday life harder. It often impacts sleep, mobility, mood, and overall quality of life. Through the VA Immersive program, the VA is combining cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and pain education inside virtual reality experiences designed to help Veterans better understand and cope with their pain.
RelieVRx is a Food and Drug Administration-authorized virtual reality therapy that Veterans can use at home once approved for the eight-week program. Using a headset, participants move through guided sessions that build on each other over time. Some sessions focus on breathing and relaxation in calming virtual settings, while others teach practical strategies for managing stress and discomfort.
VA officials say the goal is to expand non-pharmacologic pain care options and reduce reliance on opioids. According to the VA, many Veterans are asking for more access to this type of technology, especially options that fit their schedule and treatment plan.
The program has already reached a large number of facilities and patients. The VA reports that more than 4,700 virtual reality headsets have been deployed across over 170 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa. More than 10,000 Veterans have used the technology so far, with applications that include chronic pain management, mental health support, and rehabilitation therapy.
Veterans who have completed the program often report improvements in pain levels, sleep, and mood. One Veteran who used the program through the VA Palo Alto health care system described it as life-changing, saying the experience helped them better understand mindfulness techniques and how breathing can reduce stress in the body. The Veteran also stated benefits related to post-traumatic stress and expressed interest in continuing the therapy.
Beyond patient care, VA Immersive is also being used to train clinicians and staff while encouraging collaboration with industry, universities, and other government agencies to develop new therapeutic content. VA leaders believe immersive technology can play a growing role in rehabilitation, pain management, and mental health care across the system.
While virtual reality therapy may not replace every traditional treatment, it is quickly becoming another valuable tool for Veterans looking for relief without relying solely on medication.
Contact your local VA for more information.
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