Broomx’s MK360 is used
in severe MS symptoms
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes demyelination of the central nervous system. One tool to help nurses and therapists cope with patients’ pain is virtual reality. This method appears to decrease pain and anxiety when used consistently during therapy. Furthermore, creating a comfortable and calm environment seems to increase the cooperation of patients during treatment. When applying virtual reality as a treatment, especially nowadays, a fundamental concern of medical professionals is the use of virtual reality glasses.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, all materials need to be cleaned after use, making it difficult to use VR glasses. One way to immerse patients in a virtual environment and minimize those drawbacks is to use an immersive projector that doesn’t require cleaning after each use. The National Multiple Sclerosis Center in Melsbroek, Belgium (NMSC) implemented the Broomx MK360 to relieve pain and facilitate therapy in severe forms of MS.
Clinical Trial
A young patient was diagnosed in 2019 with severe MS and was admitted to the NMSC. The functional decline began after her first relapse. With an EDSS score of 9, she was unable to stand and sit upright, and her right leg and arm were paralyzed. Due to severe contractures and stiffness, the use of his left arm was limited. Unable to speak, he expressed himself through mime. She also suffers from neuropathic pain.
Clinical Trial
A young patient was diagnosed in 2019 with severe MS and was admitted to the NMSC. The functional decline began after her first relapse. With an EDSS score of 9, she was unable to stand and sit upright, and her right leg and arm were paralyzed. Due to severe contractures and stiffness, the use of his left arm was limited. Unable to speak, he expressed himself through mime. She also suffers from neuropathic pain.
Decrease in Patient Pain
Medical professionals designed a treatment that combined conventional therapy and immersive reality to decrease his sensation of pain. During one session, therapists used the MK360 to immerse the patient in a virtual world. While using the MK360, his pain sensation seemed to be less as usual. Wrist and elbow mobilization was possible, and as she experienced the projections, the patient appeared to be more alert than usual. This made it possible to demand active participation over a prolonged period.
Decrease in Patient Pain
Medical professionals designed a treatment that combined conventional therapy and immersive reality to decrease his sensation of pain. During one session, therapists used the MK360 to immerse the patient in a virtual world. While using the MK360, his pain sensation seemed to be less as usual. Wrist and elbow mobilization was possible, and as she experienced the projections, the patient appeared to be more alert than usual. This made it possible to demand active participation over a prolonged period.
The Potential of Immersive Experiences in Future Treatments
The use of the MK360 also made it possible for several new therapists to work with her. Currently, there are studies on the full potential and benefits that can be derived from using the MK360. So far, the investigation has indicated that the device is possibly a valuable resource to be implemented in the treatment of patients diagnosed with MS and neuropathic pain, as the environment created by the projector reduces pain intensity during therapy and appears to facilitate treatment. There needs to be more research, applications, and follow-up studies to successfully implement MK with other patients.
