A great deal of research has been dedicated towards methods of reducing stress and promoting healthy sleep without needing to resort to drugs such as tranquillisers or anti-depressants. Some researchers have discovered that virtual reality (VR) can assist in those outcomes, as shown by the Kortex VR device.
Based on technology developed by Fisher Wallace that has been successfully prescribed to patients in Europe, Canada, Mexico and Brazil, the Kortex device is a type of medical VR device designed to reduce stress and increase general wellness.
The creators of the device, Fisher Wallace, have partnered with two videogames companies to produce launch content for the Kortex, which includes Land’s End: A VR Adventure as well as more medically-inclined AppliedVR and Relax VR. Kortex users will also be able to receive new content recommendations on a monthly basis, including titles such as Old Friend and Chocolate by experienced VR director Tyler Hurd.
Designed to be used one or twice a day for 20 minutes, the Kortex device design allows it to attach to the majority of popular VR headsets, including the Samsung Gear VR, Google Daydream, ZEISS VR One Plus, Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. The Kortex is not currently compatible with the PlayStation VR.
The Kortex uses electrodes which attach to the skin to provide gentle neurostimulation, which some studies have shown can stimulate the production of serotonin and lower cortisol. The Fisher Wallace Stimulator on which the Kortex is based has been prescribed to over 30,000 patients since 2009.
From February 6th, 2018, visitors to VR World NYC will be able to try out Kortex along with Land’s End: A VR Adventure, which will be installed as a permanent attraction to allow visitors to experience some of the latest developments in healthcare technology.
Further information can be found on the Kortex official website. As always, VRFocus will continue to bring you the latest on new and innovative VR products and services.