(PS14-85) Using Virtual Reality to Examine the Impact of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction on Chronic Pain

Mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR) is a well-validated approach to address various clinical disorders that has also demonstrated preliminary evidence in reducing acute pain. However, relatively few studies have examined the impact of MBSR on chronic pain, and many chronic pain patients find it physically difficult to attend MBSR training in person. Recent advances in virtual reality (VR) technology now afford this population the opportunity to learn MBSR in the comfort of their homes and at times that are convenient for them. Thus, the purpose of this study is to pilot test the feasibility and impact of a home-based MBSR treatment course, delivered through a virtual reality headset, on chronic pain and related factors (e.g., mood, stress, sleep). Twenty adults with chronic pain and without preexisting conditions that eliminate them from using virtual reality (e.g., seizures) will be eligible to participate in the study. Following completion of informed consent, participants will complete several baseline measures of pain, mood, sleep, substance use, etc., and test the VR headset for comfort and functionality (all completed either in the lab or via live remote meetings). Participants will then use their smartphone to provide real-time measures of pain, mood, etc., three times each day for one week and daily ratings of sleep quantity and quality (baseline). The treatment phase will consist of 4 weeks of MBSR delivered via VR-based mindfulness videos and exercises (including daily mindfulness meditations), as well as intraday and/or daily ratings of pain, mood and sleep. Participants will then complete several measures of these key variables immediately post-treatment, and again at 1-, 3-, and 6-months post-treatment. To date, 4 participants have completed the pilot study and preliminary findings indicate improvements in reported pain at post-treatment and follow-up assessments. With additional participants completing the study over the next several months, results from this study should provide ample grounds for conducting a randomized controlled trial.