US FDA Authorizes Virtual Reality System for Reducing Back Pain

Signage is seen outside of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) headquarters in White Oak, Md., U.S. on Aug. 29, 2020. Andrew Kelly/Reuters

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday authorized a virtual reality (VR) system from Applied VR for reducing lower back pain after a majority of patients in a trial testing the device showed lesser discomfort.

The device, EaseVRx, uses cognitive behavioral therapy and other associated methods to help with pain reduction and is meant for self-use at home.