Developing a Spherical Video-Based Virtual Reality Program to Facilitate Embodiment for Adults with Chronic Pain Alexandro Guerrero- Spring 24.
The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the feasibility of developing a therapeutic
spherical video-based virtual reality (SVVR) using 360° videos for adults with chronic
pain. This was a two-phase iterative, developmental study focused on assessing
embodiment, engagement, presence, and usability. Participants were assigned to one of
two phases. Phase 1 participants trailed the initial SVVR, while providing qualitative
feedback. Phase 2 participants trialed the redeveloped SVVR that incorporated Phase 1
feedback. Quantative data was collected to assess the effect that the developmental
changes had. Results revealed that the developmental changes had a positive effect on
overall embodiment. This highlights the feasability and potential to develop and use
such a SVVR program as an analgesic occupational therapy intervention for adults with
chronic pain.
View Alex’s DEC Project: Here
Evaluating the Impact of Immersive Virtual Reality in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital Anna Leffler – Spring 23.
The purpose of my project was to determine the feasibility of using immersive virtual reality at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Braintree, MA. My site mentor, Kim VanDaley, had previously identified a gap and need for services that would help reduce acute pain and increase quality of life. IVR felt like the perfect tool to try out based on prior research to suggest it can reduce acute pain. To implement IVR at the hospital, I created a system to set up a headset at a hospital, trained therapists, and trialed the IVR with patients. Patients reported decreased pain, improved mood, and enjoying the experience. Therapists noted improved function, participation, and affect following IVR. The results of this project indicate that it is possible and beneficial to use IVR in this inpatient rehabilitation hospital and that the patients can see a reduction in pain and improvements in quality of life by using the technology.
Anna Leffler’s Poster wins 1st place at the Tufts Graduate Student Symposium
The Feasibility & Effectiveness of Meditation Virtual Reality on Reducing Pain for Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis Tara Sarkar – Summer 21
Student Presentation
*Leffler A, Van Daley K, Baker NA. Evaluating the Impact of Immersive Virtual Reality in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital. MAOT/RIOTA Annual Conference. 2024 Nov 3, Norwood, MA DEC poster
*Leffler A, Van Daley K, Baker NA. Evaluating the Impact of Immersive Virtual Reality in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital. Poster. AOTA Inspire 2024; 2024 Mar 22, Orlando, FL.
Leffler A, Van Daley K, Baker NA. Evaluating the impact of immersive virtual reality in an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Poster. Tufts Graduate Student Symposium; 2023 Apr 24; Medford MA. Won 1st place.
*Sarkar T, Edwards R, Cornelius M, Baker NA. The feasibility and effectiveness of meditation virtual reality in reducing pain for older adults with knee osteoarthritis. 3-min talk. Tufts Graduate Student Symposium; 2022 Apr 20; Medford MA. Won 3rd Place.