Many clinical studies — and real patients’ experiences — have shown that neuromodulation devices for migraine can be extremely effective at relieving symptoms and preventing attacks.
Neuromodulation is safe, with no serious adverse side effects, and can be used alongside other migraine treatments, such as medication. How do you know which device will be most effective for you? Let’s take a closer look at two options: CEFALY’s external trigeminal nerve stimulation device and the dual-nerve neurostimulation device.
Overview of eTNS for migraine vs. dual-nerve neurostimulation for migraine
Most neuromodulation devices for migraine take a similar approach to treatments. They use mild, precise electrical impulses to change the behavior of nerves. What’s different is their mechanism of action: how each device works, and the specific nerves it targets.
CEFALY uses external trigeminal neurostimulation (eTNS). This means gently stimulating and desensitizing the trigeminal nerve, which is the largest cranial nerve and the primary pathway for migraine pain. The result: interrupted pain signals and reduced migraine frequency.
Dual-nerve stimulators, such as Relivion MG, use eTNS in addition to stimulating the occipital nerve. The occipital nerve runs through the scalp. It’s the culprit in a condition called occipital neuralgia, which causes severe piercing, jolting or throbbing headache pain in the upper neck, the back of the head or behind the ears. Occipital neurostimulation may also help migraine pain.
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CEFALY vs. dual-nerve neurostimulation for migraine: How treatment works
Using CEFALY is a simple process. After washing your forehead and attaching the adhesive electrode, you lie down or recline and connect your device. Start the 60-minute ACUTE treatment at the first sign of a migraine attack to relieve pain and other bothersome symptoms. Add the 20-minute PREVENT program to your bedtime routine to reduce migraine frequency. Use the device button to adjust the stimulation intensity so it’s noticeable and also comfortable. That’s it!
In comparison, the dual-nerve neurostimulation device is a little more complicated. It’s shaped like a headband that encircles the head. In order to stimulate branches of both the trigeminal nerve and the occipital nerve, the four electrodes on the forehead and the two electrodes at the back of the head must be placed precisely for the treatment to work.
To use the Relivion MG migraine treatment device, you:
- Adjust the headband so it fits tightly
- Take it off and spray the electrodes with water: 5 times for each of the front pads and 10
- times for each of the back pads
- Place the headband on your head, making sure all the parts are in the right place and that you feel the moisture from the electrodes on your scalp
- Start the 60-minute treatment. If you get an error message, recheck the electrode moisture and placement. Adjust the stimulation level as needed.
- The optional app enables treatment tracking, but doesn’t control the device.
| CEFALY | Dual-nerve stimulator | |
| Placement | Worn on forehead | Encircles head |
| Frequency | Use as needed for migraine painUse daily for migraine prevention | Use as needed for migraine pain |
| Session length | 60 minutes for ACUTE20 minutes for PREVENT | 20-60 minutes |
| Limited treatments? | No limitations; use as often as needed. Electrodes may be reused multiple times. | No built-in limitations. Electrodes must be replaced after each use. |
| App | App available | App available |
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CEFALY vs. dual-nerve neurostimulation for migraine: Cost and accessibility
The availability of dual-nerve neurostimulation for migraine is limited. A prescription is required, and not all providers are authorized to prescribe it.
What’s the cost of Relivion MG? The manufacturer does not openly share its pricing model. Users say it’s a $150 initial fee (nonrefundable) for the 60-day trial, then $75/month for two years. After that, the continued cost is $15/month. It’s only available in the United States.
CEFALY is different. You don’t need a prescription: Just buy it! (as long as you live in the U.S., Canada, or one of the countries in the EU to which we ship). Try CEFALY in your home, and if you’re not getting the results you want, you can return the device for a refund within 90 days.
Once you purchase CEFALY, it’s yours to keep — no refill costs or subscription fees required. The only ongoing expense is replacement electrodes.
CEFALY vs. dual-nerve stimulation for migraine: Which is right for you?
Here’s the upshot: You have to find the device that’s right for you. Some people with migraine like the sensation of both the trigeminal and occipital nerve stimulation. Others find it difficult to use the headband-style device, especially during an active migraine attack.
We deliberately made CEFALY affordable, accessible, and easy to use. Unlike other devices, you don’t need a prescription and you don’t need to keep paying to refill it. Find out why so many people call CEFALY a life-changing migraine treatment.
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