Virtual Reality as a Tool to Lower Blood Pressure and Anxiety in Clinic Settings

Launched by MAYO CLINIC · Apr 28, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether a calming virtual reality (VR) experience can help lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety in adults who are getting their blood pressure monitored at the Mayo Clinic in Florida. The researchers want to find out if spending just 5 minutes in a VR relaxation session can make a difference in how patients feel and what their blood pressure readings are in the doctor's office compared to at home.

To participate, you need to be at least 18 years old and scheduled for blood pressure monitoring at the Mayo Clinic. You will complete two short surveys about your feelings before and after the VR session, enjoy a 5-minute calming VR experience, and have your blood pressure checked before and after the session. This process will take about 30 extra minutes during your visit. However, some people may not be eligible if they have certain medical conditions, like epilepsy or significant visual impairments. If you’re interested in participating, you’ll be able to help researchers understand if VR can be a helpful tool for managing blood pressure and anxiety during medical visits.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18 years or older.
• • Undergoing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) at Mayo Clinic Florida for any clinical indication.
• • Able and willing to provide informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • History of epilepsy or seizure disorders.
• • Significant cognitive impairment (e.g., dementia, Alzheimer's disease).
• • Significant visual impairment that prevents visualization of the VR environment.
• • History of vestibular disorders (e.g., Meniere's disease, chronic vertigo).
• • Unstable cardiovascular conditions (e.g., myocardial infarction within the past year).
• • Chronic hypoxemic respiratory failure requiring supplemental oxygen.
• • Cervical spine instability or injuries that could impair safe VR use.
• • Current pregnancy