6 Healthcare Examples Of Virtual, Augmented And Mixed Reality

There has been a trend in tech to embrace “new” realities. Meta has a virtual reality (VR), hardware and software development branch. HTC’s new AR glasses were unveiled earlier this year. Apple, meanwhile, is reportedly preparing to launch a mixed reality headset.

Analysts believe that VR, AR, and MR together fall under the umbrella of extended reality (XR), which analysts believe has the potential to become the next major computing platform. These potentials can have spillover effects on the medical field through digital healthcare approaches. Healthcare practice is already using such XR methods. Let’s take a look at some examples, but let’s first get to know the “new realities” by reading:

Term	What it does
Virtual Reality (VR)	Completely shields the physical world from the user and immerses them in an interactive virtual environment
Augmented Reality (AR)	Superimposes the physical environment with virtual elements that have limited interaction
Mixed Reality (MR)	Merges aspects from both VR and AR to incorporate virtual elements into the physical world with a wide range of interaction
Extended Reality (XR)	An umbrella term for technologies including VR, AR and MR

Complete immersion for pain management and exposure therapy

Because it is popularised by companies like Meta and the gaming industry, virtual reality may be the most common form of XR. The technology can be accessed via a headset that blocks the view of the wearer and completely immerses them into a virtual world.

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VR’s immersive nature has made it an ideal choice for pain management and mental health.

VR exposure therapy (VRET), which involves gradually exposing a patient to an anxious stimulus, has been gaining popularity in the field of mental health. Researchers discovered that the method is effective and can also be used remotely to improve access to mental health. Already, companies like oVRcome and Psylaris offer commercially-available VRET.

The use of VR to aid in pain relief during labour and delivery has been investigated. It allows the user to visualize breathing and relaxation techniques. One study using this method showed that VR helped to reduce pain in labor for women. Researchers found similar benefits in VR-aided labor in subsequent studies.

Augmented Reality: Virtual elements for patient education, aiding surgery

You might be familiar with augmented reality, as this is the technology behind much-hyped Pokemon Go and Snapchat filters. AR can be accessed via a screen (either a smartphone or glasses), which overlays virtual elements onto real world.

AR is still in its infancy, but there are some promising uses for it in healthcare. Researchers found that AR could be beneficial in patient education. UK-based company Curiscope already manufactures commercially-available AR t-shirts that provide basic anatomy information.

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AR can also be used on the operating table. In 2020, Johns Hopkins University neurosurgeons performed the first AR-assisted spine fusion surgery. Augmedics developed a headset that surgeons could use to view CT scans of the patient’s internal anatomy. Similar procedures were completed using the technology at the Hospital for Special Surgery, New York State in December 2022.

Mixed Reality: Training future doctors and assisting with hands-free medical consultations

Mixed reality has some similarities to AR, which also adds virtual elements to the real world similar to holograms. MR is different in that it provides additional depth and perspective to its virtual elements, which allows for further interactions that are impossible with AR. MR has largely been used in industries, rather than for consumers. This is thanks to devices like the Microsoft Hololens or the Magic Leap.

Case Western Reserve University has used the former device for anatomy classes for many years. Accessible through Hololens and HoloAnatomy, students can view holograms that depict real body parts. This technology allowed first-year medical students to take an all-remote anatomy class during the COVID-19 pandemic. This mode was preferred by the vast majority of medical students, who also believed that MR methods could effectively teach anatomy.

The Hololens was also used by doctors at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust during the crisis in public health. The MR headset was used by doctors at the Trust to have hands-free conversations between patients and colleagues, while simultaneously viewing medical notes and Xrays for clinical decision making.

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These examples should help you see the potential of XR technology for healthcare. These were just six of many potential and already implemented applications. Many more are likely to follow in the near future. Do you know of any XR healthcare applications that caught your attention but weren’t included in this article. Please share your ideas with us!

Written By Dr. Bertalan Mesko and Dr. Pranavsingh Dahunnoo

The Medical Futurist published the article 6 Healthcare Examples Of Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which types of treatment are not considered part of holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person as a healing approach, rather than just the symptoms. Holistic medicine helps people recover from illness and promotes health.

Holistic medicine relies on natural remedies such homeopathy, herbs, and acupuncture to replace drugs and surgery.

Holistic medicine refers to lifestyle changes like exercise, diet and meditation.

Integrative medicine, also known as Holistic Medicine, integrates all aspects a patient’s mental, physical, and emotional needs into one comprehensive treatment plan.

Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.

Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. Holistic doctors look at the whole picture, which includes genetic factors, environmental influences and lifestyle choices.

Holistic practitioners are more concerned with the mind, emotions, or spirit than they are about the body.

Holistic physicians work closely with their patients to determine what will best meet their individual needs.

What Is Alternative Medicine?

It is a healing approach that focuses on prevention instead of treating. It encourages people become educated consumers who are actively involved in improving their overall health and well-being.

Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn’t use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.

Where can I find out more information about holistic healing?

Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to health care that considers all aspects, including the spiritual, emotional and mental well-being of the patient.

Holistic medicine seeks to treat the person as a whole, rather than treating specific symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.

Holistic medicine includes preventive measures such as exercise and nutrition and treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.

There are many different types of holistic medicine:

Acupuncture
Aromatherapy
Ayurveda
Chiropractic medicine
Homeopathy
Herbalism
Naturopathy
Nutrition
Osteopathic medicine
Vedic medicine
Yoga

What are some of the benefits of complementary or alternative medicine?

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an umbrella term for medical practices used by people who believe they are not getting adequate help from allopathic medicine. These include herbal medicines, mind and body therapies like acupuncture, massage, homeopathy or traditional Chinese medicine. Because they don’t fit within the traditional medical system of diagnosis or treatment, CAM practitioners often choose to use “alternative” treatments. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. One example is acupuncture that uses needles. Others use heat or acupressure.

Some CAM therapies may be helpful for anxiety, pain relief, stress management or relaxation. They can improve your well-being, reduce fatigue, and may even help you feel more energetic. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM treatments may be just as enjoyable.

There is no singular definition of what constitutes “CAM”, but most definitions include at the very least one of these:

A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
It is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
Combination Western science and Eastern philosophy
The best treatment methods integrate mind, spirit, and body
Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
Touch of healing
Mindfulness
Meditation
Acupuncture
Yoga
Herbal remedies
Homeopathy
Chiropractic care
Massage therapy
Hypnotherapy
Spiritual healing
Biofeedback
Nutritional counseling
Energy healing

Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.

Who uses alternative medicine

Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.

They are keen to avoid surgery and harmful drugs.
They believe natural remedies work better.
They prefer non-invasive treatment.
They are looking to spend less.
They feel more at ease using natural products
They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
They want to take responsibility for their health.
They want to live in a healthier environment.
They desire less stress in their life.
They want more freedom when it comes to choosing their doctors or their healthcare plans.
They want their children to receive a better education.
They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
They want safe, effective drugs.

What does holistic mean to you?

Holistic simply means holistic. Holistic means to see the whole picture and not just a part. It is difficult to do this because we tend to see things as individual parts.

Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. However, grey comes in a wide range of shades.

Try to look at everything from different perspectives when you work on a project. It is important to see it from all angles.

Consider how the whole thing fits together. Is there a way for its elements to interact?

Ask yourself why you are having trouble with a particular element. Remember to think about the consequences of any changes you make.

Statistics

These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)

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What are the Advances and Shortcomings of Holistic Medicine.

Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. It was developed during the late 19th century by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), who published his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure, in 1924. He used simple techniques like meditation and visualization. People suffering from anxiety, depression and pain can benefit from this treatment. Additionally, patients can use this therapy to help them cope with their problems. It also improves their quality of living.

Although holistic therapies are still practiced today, they have lost popularity because of the lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness. Some studies do show that these therapies can be used to reduce chronic conditions like arthritis, cancer and heart disease.

These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:

Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
It is cheaper than traditional medicine. Alternative medicines can be cheaper than traditional ones, particularly if the patient follows a healthy diet.
Patients do not feel pressured to comply with the prescribed protocol.
Many doctors recommend complementary treatments without prescribing them.
Many holistic treatments can be combined with traditional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
People believe alternative treatments are better than traditional medicine.
Alternative medicines are considered to be more natural than conventional drugs.
Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They not only want to live a healthy life but also want to be happy.
Holistic treatment patients are often healthier.
The popularity of holistic therapies is growing among seniors.
More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
Doctors need to be able to see that not all patients are candidates for alternative treatments.
Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
Holistic treatments might not be for everyone.
So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
Holistic treatments can sometimes be dangerous.
For specific conditions, holistic treatments can be helpful.
Holistic treatments can be very effective.
Holistic therapies are based upon ancient wisdom.
Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
Holistic treatments can be hard to understand.
Holistic treatments are hard to learn.
Holistic treatments are too expensive.
Holistic treatments can be very costly.
Holistic treatments are less expensive than conventional medicine.
Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.

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A Brief History of Holistic Medicine

Holistic medicine refers to a system that treats the whole person rather than just the symptoms. It encompasses all aspects of the person, such as their mental, physical, spiritual, occupational, cultural, and social influences. It promotes prevention over cure.

The first holistic medical school was established at Bastyr University in Seattle in 1972. After Dr. Andrew Weil’s 1996 book, “Spontaneous Healing”, holistic medicine started to flourish. In 1997, the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA) was founded by Dr. David Williams and Dr. Michael Murray. Today, there are hundreds of holistic medicine schools worldwide, including Bastyr University, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons, Maharishi Ayurveda Institute, Pacific School of Oriental Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many others.

In 2013, the World Health Organization declared holistic medicine one of the five major trends in healthcare. This trend focuses on integrating traditional care with complementary therapies like acupuncture, homeopathy and herbalism, massage therapy (reiki), yoga, meditation, and even tai-chi. This integration seeks to provide safe, efficient, patient-centered care, while minimizing side effects.

Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. This is an example:

Stress and anxiety can cause you to become anxious and tense. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. This causes you to feel weak and tired.

You feel negative emotions such as anger, fear, grief and sadness when your emotions are high. These feelings create stress in your brain. Untreated, stress can cause your body to make adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline increases your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate. Cortisol impacts your immune system as well as your digestive tract and nervous system. Both hormones can cause fatigue and muscle tension, headaches as well as dizziness.

You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. Also, you may lack self-esteem. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. Your spirit will make you feel happy, cheerful, peaceful, optimistic, and positive.

There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine

Allopathic medicine relies on scientific methods. To diagnose patients, doctors use xrays, MRIs and CAT scans. When necessary, they prescribe medication and perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe that they have a complete understanding of the human body and can treat any illnesses. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. Alternative medicine can be defined in many ways. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. Other names include traditional medicine and naturopathic medicines.

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By: Pranavsingh Dhunnoo
Title: 6 Healthcare Examples Of Virtual, Augmented And Mixed Reality
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/6-healthcare-examples-of-virtual-augmented-and-mixed-reality
Published Date: Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000