What it is
An innovative Israeli medical start-up, 6Degrees, has developed virtual reality (VR) games designed to enable new war amputees to engage in independent physical therapy. These immersive games also significantly reduce phantom pain, lessening their reliance on pain medications.
Why it matters
As of early September, the Health Ministry reports 68 newly registered war amputees classed among the 10,056 soldiers injured since the incursion led by Hamas terrorists on October 7. This surge in injured soldiers, 37% of whom have limb trauma, has exerted immense pressure on the healthcare system. The new VR technology could greatly alleviate this strain and provide more effective and accessible treatment.
How it works
Co-founders Aryeh Katz and Miri Berger developed AI-based immersive VR games that simulate “mirror therapy,” allowing amputees to visualize and control a virtual limb. This process has shown faster pain reduction compared to existing treatments, as indicated by clinical trials at Sheba Medical Center and U.S. veterans’ hospitals. Remarkably, 88% of patients reported reduced pain, with some experiencing lasting effects for six months post-therapy, enabling a decrease in pain medication dependency.
Inside the Sheba Medical Center Rehab Room
Aryeh Katz demos the MyMove system with Tamir, an injured soldier, as part of fundraising efforts to distribute these systems to other soldiers in need. Requests have already come in for 120 systems from various Israeli hospitals. The MyMove system collects muscle engagement and range of motion data, which is directly accessible to caretakers for detailed progress tracking.
A Lifelong Struggle with Pain
Living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) himself, Katz draws from personal experience to enhance the MyMove system, ensuring its efficacy. The system not only addresses “phantom pain” but also empowers patients to reduce medication reliance, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life.
Innovative Room for Rehabilitation
Sheba Medical Center recently opened an immersive rehabilitation room. This high-tech facility uses a multi-sensory environment with sound, projectors, and sensors to support various rehabilitative needs, creating more engaging and effective treatment sessions. The room is an integral part of holistic patient therapy and recovery.
The Bigger Picture
This cutting-edge development showcases Israel’s dedication to supporting its wounded soldiers through advanced technological solutions. By providing effective, independent therapy options, 6Degrees and Sheba Medical Center not only alleviate the burden on the healthcare system but also pave the way for a brighter, pain-free future for countless injured soldiers.
Continued Commitment
“We aim to be a pivotal part of the recovery support system,” said Berger. “Managing pain is an ongoing process, and our technology is designed to assist patients every step of the way.”
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.