Virtual reality for the treatment of neuropathic pain in people with spinal cord injuries: A scoping review

Context: Virtual and augmented imagery are emerging technologies with potential to reduce the severity and impact of neuropathic pain in people with spinal cord injury (SCI).Objective: We aimed to identify and discuss studies using virtual and augmented reality applications for the management of neuropathic pain in people with spinal cord injury.Methods (data sources, data extraction): A systematic literature search was conducted using PRISMA scoping review guidelines. Articles were searched in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases using search terms relating to SCI, virtual and augmented reality and neuropathic pain. With no strong evidence for visual imagery in the treatment of pain in SCI patients, we selected exploratory, feasibility and more rigorous methodologies such as randomized controlled trials and case-control studies. We only selected studies evaluating the effects of visual imagery on neuropathic pain at or below the spinal cord injury level.Results: Of 60 articles located, we included...