NCT06262126 · Mayo Clinic
Virtual Reality for Non-cardiac Chest Pain
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine if virtual reality (VR) will improve symptoms in non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine if virtual reality (VR) will improve symptoms in non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP).
Interventions
OTHER
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality therapy
Primary outcome measures
Measure changes in GERD symptoms using the GERDQ questionnare
Time frame: Week 2
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) questionnaire (GerdQ) is a 6-item questionnaire (scale from 0 to 18) that measures heartburn, regurgitation, abdominal pain, nausea, sleep disorders, and the over-the-counter (OTC) drugs use. The score predicts the likelihood of GERD, with a score between 11-18 suggesting 89% or greater likelihood.
Measure changes in GERD quality of life using the GERD-HRQL questionnaire
Time frame: Week 2
GERD-HRQL- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - Health Related Quality of Life (HRQL) The scale has 15 items, which focus on heartburn symptoms, dysphagia, medication effects and health condition. Each item is scored from 0 to 5 (maximum score 75), with a higher score indicating a better QOL
Measure changes in esophageal symptom specific anxiety using the EHAS questionnaire
Time frame: Week 2
The esophageal hypervigilance and anxiety scale (EHAS) The EHAS is a 15-item measure with two factors evaluating esophageal hypervigilance and symptom specific anxiety scored on a 0-4 Likert scale. Items are summed to yield a total score ranging from 0 - 60 (Greater hypervigilance/anxiety).
Measure changes in GI symptom severity using the PAGI-SYM questionnaire
Time frame: Week 2
Patient Assessment of Gastrointestinal Disorders-Symptom Severity Index (PAGI-SYM) The PAGI-SYM includes 6 subscales ranging from 0 (none) to 5 (very severe): heartburn/regurgitation, fullness/early satiety, nausea/vomiting, bloating, upper abdominal pain, and lower abdominal pain.
Measure changes in GI related patient assessment of quality of life using PAGI-QOL
Time frame: Week 2
Patient Assessment of Gastrointestinal Disorders-Quality of Life (PAGI-QOL) The PAGI-QOL Is an instrument scoring 30 factors each from 0 (none of the time) to 5 (all of the time). Symptoms are assessed over a 2 week period and include the 5 domains daily activities, clothing, diet and food habits, psychological well-being/distress, and relationships.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Symptoms of non-cardiac chest pain (recurrent anginal-like or atypical chest pain)
- Negative prior cardiac evaluation (at a minimum, including electrocardiogram)
- Prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy and/or barium esophagram to rule out severe esophagitis, stricture, or motility abnormality
Exclusion criteria
- Initiation of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) within 8 weeks
- Major concomitant illness
- Current drug or alcohol use that that would interfere with adherence to study requirements
- Symptoms of vertigo or dizziness that would limit tolerability of the VR headset
Where
- Jacksonville, Florida
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations