APM WorkCare’s Virtual Reality Pain Recovery Program has won the ‘Innovation in Return to Work’ Award at ARPA’s Western Australian Excellence in Workplace Rehabilitation Awards.
Virtual reality is helping our understanding of pain in the real world, and this award for our VR Pain Recovery Program, is further recognition for a program that’s been getting positive attention since its inception.
By collaborating with Australia’s top pain science researchers and clinicians — and using innovative technology — we’ve developed a program that helps people understand the root causes of their pain and discover effective relief methods.
A ground-breaking new way to recover from pain
Finding the best ways to manage chronic pain is often a challenge, especially when traditional treatments haven’t been effective.
To improve the wellbeing and productivity of people experiencing chronic pain, APM WorkCare now offers a cutting-edge, VR-empowered pain recovery program.
It combines advanced neuroscience with the biology of recovery, to create an immersive education program for those who suffer from chronic pain.
Chronic pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide according to the Global Burden of Disease study.
The program developed by the organisation aims to improve the functional literacy of injured workers, utilising virtual reality therapy to enhance understanding and management of pain symptoms associated with injury.
Integral to the program's success are the tailored sessions focusing on functional and activity engagement goals, support provided by workplace rehabilitation practitioners in conveying complex topics, immersive learning experiences, and a holistic approach backed by evidence-based techniques.
The program represents a paradigm shift in pain management education, with data indicating significant improvements in pain scores, psychosocial barriers, and patient self-efficacy post-program engagement.
Who is this treatment suited to?
Clients might be eligible for our VR pain recovery program if they:
- are working less than 15 hours per week
- have persistent pain for more than 12 weeks
- have identified psychosocial risk factors
- are unable to undertake Activities of Daily Living tasks independently
- have been prescribed opioid medications
- have undergone repeat imaging scans, such as CT, MRI
How does it work?
The program is designed to encourage people to think differently about their pain and it works through several steps.
- Personalised consultations: We visit the client’s home weekly for six weeks.
- Engaging VR sessions: Each session includes up to two VR modules (up to eight minutes, sitting or standing).
- Progress reviews: During each visit, we review the program to see how the intervention suits the client’s specific health and recovery goals.
- Comprehensive assessments: Pre and post-assessments are conducted to review outcomes, progress towards goals and provide planning for the future.
The program offers numerous benefits
- Evidence-based techniques: Proven methods to support effective pain recovery.
- Safe, non-invasive approach: Activities and educational content that are easy to understand and implement.
- User-friendly program: Clearly demonstrated steps that encourage proactive participation in the recovery process.
- Hands-on recovery: Empowering participants to take an active role in their own recovery journey.
Trial our VR Program
Could your clients benefit from our VR Pain Recovery Program?