Wearable Technology in Neurologic Care: Emerging Issues in Neurology

4 min read229 viewsJournal Article

GIST

Consumer wearable devices are commonly used by patients and consumers for several reasons with increasing application as new technologies are developed. Use of these devices is an emerging issue in Neurology because of increased adoption and the additional data reported to providers by patients.

Understanding of possible functions, limitations, and effect on patients of non-US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared wearable technology to inform neurologic care is needed. A common theme in people with neurologic conditions regarding consumer wearables and associated tracking applications is that there is significant promise in these tools, but adherence (days per use/per week), continued engagement (attrition), and unintended consequences such as heightened anxiety remain important issues.

Further understanding and validation of these devices is needed within the field of Neurology before full use and confidence can be achieved. Below, we provide examples of non-FDA-cleared wearable devices used in Neurology in the areas of epilepsy, headache, cardiac monitoring, and sleep.

Clinical Editorial

Context and purpose

The article discusses consumer wearable devices as increasingly adopted tools with potential for neurology care, emphasizing devices that are not cleared by the US FDA.

Study design and scope

The content provides examples of non-FDA-cleared wearables applied to neurological practice, highlighting domains such as epilepsy, headache, cardiac monitoring, and sleep.
It notes the broader context of data reporting from patients to providers and the need to understand functions, limitations, and impact on care.

Population and exposure

People with neurological conditions are identified as a focus group for wearables and related tracking apps.
The discussion centers on consumer devices used outside regulatory clearance, rather than specialized medical-grade systems.

Interventions or exposure details

The material references various non-cleared wearable technologies used in neurological contexts, without detailing specific devices, methodologies, or validation data.

Key findings and interpretation

There is acknowledged promise in wearables for neurology, alongside concerns about adherence (days per use, weekly engagement), ongoing engagement (attrition), and potential adverse effects such as increased anxiety.