Virtual Reality: A New Tool for Carrolltown Back Pain Recovery
THE SCIENCE BEHIND VR AND PAIN RELIEF
New groundbreaking research published in Scientific Reports has shown that virtual reality can plainly alter what your brain does with pain signals. The study found that patients with chronic low back pain experienced modified pain perception during movement when using VR systems with visual feedback. (1) This isn't just distraction – it's your brain adapting its response to movement patterns that normally cause discomfort.
The key is how VR changes visual feedback to create a mismatch between what you see and what you feel, allowing your nervous system to develop new, pain-free movement patterns. This breakthrough finding suggests that VR can help interrupt the cycle of pain-avoidance that often keeps people with Carrolltown back pain from getting the exercise that can help them.
TARGETING YOUR DEEP SPINAL MUSCLES
A significant challenge in back pain recovery involves strengthening the lumbar erector spinae – the deep muscles that run along your spine and provide crucial stability. These muscles often become weak and poorly coordinated in people with chronic back pain, creating a pattern of instability and worsening pain.
New research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology reveals that these muscles show different fatigue patterns and spatial distribution alterations in older adults compared to younger persons, highlighting the importance of age-appropriate, targeted training. (2) VR systems can provide immediate feedback about muscle activation, guiding you to properly use these deep stabilizing muscles that can be tough to feel and coordinate.
THE FUTURE OF REHABILITATION
Virtual reality offers a unique opportunity to combine pain science with engaging, interactive exercise. By offering instant visual feedback about your movement patterns and muscle activation, VR can help you redevelop your body's natural movement patterns while making the process more enjoyable and effective.
Check with your Carrolltown chiropractor at Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation about incorporating VR-based exercises into your treatment plan – it may provide a path to lasting back pain relief.
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