Relivion is an external combined occipital and trigeminal neurostimulation device available as a self-administered home treatment for migraine. The mechanism of action for the technology in Relivion is built around proven practices in neuromodulation. Neuromodulation is the alteration of nerve activity (such as pain) through targeted delivery of a stimulus (such as an electrical stimulation) to specific nerves in the body (such as the trigeminal and occipital). Relivion concurrently stimulates the two primary nerve pathways in the brain associated with migraine. The device targets six branches across the across the occipital and trigeminal nerves. A recent study of fifty-five subjects with episodic and chronic migraine were randomly assigned to active or sham (dummy) treatment. Subjects performed a 60-min home treatment within 45 min of migraine onset. Active treatment was significantly more effective than sham stimulation for decreasing pain intensity at 1 hour and 2 hours. Pain-free ratings were also greater for the active treatment arm at 1 hour and 2 hours. Overall headache relief was significantly higher in the active treatment group at 1 hour and 2 hours. Mild, transient side effects reported by a few subjects resolved without treatment. Per this study, the Relivion device provides superior and meaningful relief and freedom from migraine pain compared to sham treatment. The MCHN is pleased to offer this treatment to our patients. Please make an appointment with one of our providers to discuss if this device is appropriate for you.
–Alice Wong, NP
References:
Daniel O, Tepper SJ, Deutsch L, Sharon R. External Concurrent Occipital and Trigeminal Neurostimulation Relieves Migraine Headache: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial. Pain Ther. 2022 Sep;11(3):907-922. doi: 10.1007/s40122-022-00394-w. Epub 2022 Jun 4. PMID: 35661128; PMCID: PMC9314547.