Fibromyalgia, pilot study: pain decreases with treatment in an immersive virtual environment

It is possible to reduce the chronic pain caused by fibromyalgia through deep (diaphragmatic) breathing taught and performed in an immersive virtual environment. This is demonstrated by a pilot study conducted by the University of Udine in collaboration with the Friuli Central University Health Authority (ASUFC). Pain perception is alleviated thanks to the application developed by the University, which provides a relaxing and engaging experience, with real-time monitoring of physiological parameters. The research was carried out by a joint team from the Human–Computer Interaction Lab of the Department of Mathematical, Computer, and Physical Sciences at the University and the Rheumatology Clinic of ASUFC.