IDYLL
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A feasibility study of virtual reality relaxation for treating hidden symptoms in people with progressive multiple sclerosis
IRAS ID
272595
Contact name
Laura Edwards
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN76033536
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 8 days
Research summary
Research Summary
People with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) often struggle as much with “hidden symptoms” of MS (HSMS) as with more “visible” (e.g. difficulty walking; speech difficulties) symptoms. HSMS include fatigue, pain, depression, poor sleep and anxiety.
Treating HSMS can be challenging. Medicines can help mood and pain, but may worsen fatigue and have side-effects. Non-drug treatments including relaxation, mindfulness and exercise may be helpful, but can be difficult for PwMS to access. There is a need for new effective strategies to help PwMS manage their symptoms which are engaging, effective, acceptable and accessible.
Virtual reality (VR) provides an immersive escape into new environments and experiences which would not otherwise be accessible. This can help to relax and distract from unpleasant symptoms.
This is an initial feasibility study to explore the home use of VR for symptom management by PwMS.
We will work with 10 PwMS divided into two groups of 5. The first group will be provided with a simple VR headset at home. They can use it to try activities like swimming with dolphins, watching sunrise at the beach or guided meditation and mindfulness. The second group will be provided with access to pre-recorded audio-guided meditation and relaxation sessions.
Both groups will use the equipment at least 3 times per week for 6 weeks.
Participants will be asked about their symptoms before study starts, halfway through, at the end of six weeks and one month after the study, to look for longer-lasting effects.
We will look at how the study was delivered, how easy it was to recruit participants, and how many dropped out. We will ask study participants about their experiences and how the study could be improved.
We will use our findings to design a larger comprehensive trial to allow us to study the effects of VR on HSMS.
Summary of Results
10 participants with progressive MS and relatively high levels of disability and symptom burden were recruited. 7 participants completed the study. Both interventions were generally well received but some aspects of device use were challenging for those with impaired dexterity and mobility. The VR in particular was deemed to be an enjoyable and distracting experience. Adherence and outcome measure completion were variable. No significant difference was seen in any of the clinical outcome measures.
Conclusion
VR was a well received intervention but there needs to be optimisation of the choice of outcome measures and usability of devices before a larger scale trial can be delivered.
Key messages around feasibility
Immersive VR using multi-modal Immersive VR using multi-modal skills-based pain self management can be delivered to people with MS in the home environment, even with high levels of disability and symptom burden. Care is needed around choice of outcome measures, and ease of use of devices.
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0353
Date of REC Opinion
8 Jun 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion