A Feasibility study of EEG Neurofeedback in Chronic Migraine

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    A Feasibility study of Electroencephalogram (EEG) Neurofeedback in Chronic Migraine

  • IRAS ID

    185322

  • Contact name

    Raeburn Forbes

  • Contact email

    raeburn.forbes@southerntrust.hscni.net

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    0 years, 5 months, 31 days

  • Research summary

    This study aims to assess the feasibility of EEG neurofeedback in the treatment of Chronic Migraine. Neurofeedback is a method of brain-training which allows a patient to gain some conscious control over brain function. Neurofeedback can be effective in improving symptoms of attention-deficit disorders, autism and severe epilepsy. It is carried out using standard, non-invasive EEG techniques and is based on a well understood method of learning called operant conditioning.

    In this study we are wanting to find out if there are common patterns of abnormal brain wave pattern specific to people with Chronic Migraine (a severe form of migraine where pain is present at a severe level on a daily basis in spite of drug treatment). If such changes can be identified, the EEG neurofeedback should be tested formally in a clinical trial as a potential treatment for drug resistant migraine.

    Study participants will be recruited from Neurology Clinics of the Southern HSC Trust. The participants will be given a one hour appointment in Craigavon Area Hospital at which their EEG recording will take place.

    We aim to assess 16 Chronic Migraine patients, and will analyse their data to identify common problems in brain function which we might link to their migraine symptoms. If a common pattern emerges then there will be a rational basis for performing a randomised clinical trial.

  • REC name

    East of England - Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    15/EE/0265

  • Date of REC Opinion

    3 Jul 2015

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion