Pain management: VR is being used to manage pain in a variety of settings, from hospitals to physical therapy clinics. For example, the company Applied-VR <www.appliedvr.io> has developed a VR system that helps patients manage pain during medical procedures like IV insertion and dental work. Another company, Karuna Labs <https://karunalabs.com>, has developed a VR platform that helps patients manage chronic pain through physical therapy exercises.
Surgical training: VR is being used to train surgeons in a variety of procedures, allowing them to practice in a safe and controlled environment. One company, Osso VR <https://www.ossovr.com>, has developed a surgical training platform that allows medical professionals to practice procedures like hip replacements and spine surgery in a realistic, immersive VR environment.
OssoVR was recently recognized by Fierce Healthcare as a 2023 Fierce 15 honouree <https://bit.ly/44z2mv6>, designating it as one of the most promising companies in healthcare. Justin Barad, MD, CEO and co-founder of Osso VR commented that Osso is “bridging surgical training gaps with evidence-based, state-of-the-art immersive technology and a mission to improve outcomes”. In the past year Osso VR secured $66 million in Series C funding to meet demand for state-of-the-art surgical training at scale. The company continued to expand its content library into specialties outside of orthopaedics and demonstrated clinical effectiveness in multiple peer-reviewed journals. Further, Osso VR and the American College of Cardiology announced a new collaboration to develop training for cardiovascular professionals.
Mental health: VR is also being used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety and PTSD. The company <www.limbix.com> has developed a VR platform that provides exposure therapy for patients with anxiety disorders, while the company Bravemind has developed a VR system that helps veterans with PTSD overcome trauma.
Rehabilitation: VR is being used to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses by providing immersive rehabilitation exercises. The company MindMaze <https://mindmaze.com> has developed a VR system that helps stroke patients recover movement and function in their limbs.
