Migraine App Eases Disability and Boosts Recovery After Emergency Visits
A new migraine app is helping patients recover faster after emergency department visits. The smartphone-based tool focuses on relaxation exercises that reduce migraine-related disability and improve post-visit self-care. Researchers say this approach can make migraine management easier and more effective for many patients.
Digital Relief for Migraine Patients
The emergency department is often the first stop for people with recurring migraine attacks. Therefore, introducing digital support early can improve outcomes. In this study, patients used the RELAXaHEAD migraine app, which includes a progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) feature. This tool helps users manage pain and tension beyond medication. As a result, it empowers patients to take an active role in recovery.
Researchers at New York University Langone Health tested the app in a clinical trial involving 94 adults between 18 and 65 years old. Participants experienced at least four migraine days each month. They used the app for three months, and their progress was tracked through app data and disability assessments.
Results and Future Potential
The findings were promising. Patients who used the relaxation feature showed a greater reduction in disability scores. On average, the PMR group improved by 25 points, compared with about seven points in the control group. In addition, 82% of relaxation users reported noticeable improvement, nearly double the control rate.
However, the app did not change the number of headache days. Its main benefit was reducing the impact of migraines on daily life. Researchers believe that consistent app use was key to success. Going forward, experts plan to explore how such digital tools can support long-term migraine prevention and patient education.
