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Digital Technology and Mobile Health in Behavioral Migraine Therapy: a Narrative Review

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This article reviews the recent research and development of electronic health (eHealth) and, in particular, mobile health (mHealth) strategies to deliver behavioral treatment for migraine. Prospects for future development and research of mobile health in migraine are suggested.

Recent Findings

Advances in digital technology and mobile technology have led to an era where electronic and mobile approaches are applied to several aspects of healthcare. Electronic behavioral interventions for migraine seem to be acceptable and feasible, but efficacy measures are uncertain. Clinical trials on mHealth-based classical behavioral therapies, such as relaxation, biofeedback, and cognitive behavioral therapy are missing in the literature. Within mHealth, headache diaries are the most researched and scientifically developed. Still, there is a gap between commercially available apps and scientifically validated and developed apps.

Summary

Digital technology and mobile health has not yet lived out its potential in behavioral migraine therapy. Application of proper usability and functionality designs towards the right market, together with appraisal of medical and technological recommendations, may facilitate rapid development of eHealth and mHealth, while also establishing scientific evidence.

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Correspondence to Anker Stubberud.

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Anker Stubberud and Mattias Linde declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Psychological and Behavioral Aspects of Headache and Pain

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Stubberud, A., Linde, M. Digital Technology and Mobile Health in Behavioral Migraine Therapy: a Narrative Review. Curr Pain Headache Rep 22, 66 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-018-0718-0

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