MigraineMind research summary

U.S. Veterans Using Remote Electrical Neuromodulation for Migraine: A Prospective Real-World Evidence Study of Treatment Patterns, Medication Use, Effectiveness, and Safety (2020-2025).

Military medicine | 2026

Observational study
AuthorsBrooks-Horrar KN, Crisan E, Mama E, Stark-Inbar A, Ironi A, Towne AR, Sico JJ
JournalMilitary medicine
Publication year2026
PubMed ID42520312

Summary

Among U.S. veterans, migraines and headaches are very common. These disorders often co-occur with other health conditions. Thus, effective, well-tolerated, drug-free treatments are essential. Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) is a wearable device for treating migraines. This study assessed REN's treatment patterns, medication use, effectiveness, and safety. It involved veterans prescribed REN as part of their care. Data was gathered using the REN mobile app, Nerivio. The study included 466 veterans with an average age of 49 years. Veterans completed 28,274 REN treatments. Remarkably, 76.7% of treatments required no rescue medications. Pain relief was achieved by 67% of patients. Additionally, 26% reported freedom from pain. Functional disability relief was reported by 69%, while 56% experienced symptom relief. Only 0.4% of patients reported device-related adverse events. This study demonstrates REN's effectiveness as a safe alternative for treating migraines in veterans. Clinical relevance: This study shows REN as a safe, effective, drug-free option for veterans with migraines.

Key Learning Points

  • Migraines and headaches are very common among U.S. veterans and often occur alongside other health issues.
  • Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) is a wearable device that offers a drug-free treatment option for migraines.
  • The majority of veterans using REN did not need rescue medications during their treatments.
  • A significant number of patients reported pain relief and improved functioning after using the REN device.
  • REN has a very low rate of adverse events, making it a safe alternative for migraine treatment in veterans.

Research Informatics

REAL-WORLD STUDY

REN shows promise for migraine relief in veterans.

exposureRemote electrical neuromodulation (REN)
conditionMigraine
populationU.S. veterans with migraine
sample Size466
main OutcomeEffectiveness and safety of REN
study DesignProspective cohort

Original research

Read the original publication and review its full methods and findings on PubMed.

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