Home used, patient self-managed, brain-computer interface for the management of central neuropathic pain post spinal cord injury: usability study

This study explores using brain-computer interface (BCI) technology at home for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) who experience central neuropathic pain (CNP). The goal was to see if patients could effectively manage their pain themselves using neurofeedback (NFB) training with a consumer EEG device. Participants used a portable EEG headset and tablet to perform neurofeedback training at home, aiming to regulate their brainwaves. The system provided visual feedback to help them increase alpha band power while decreasing theta and beta band power. The study found that many participants could successfully regulate their brainwaves and experienced a reduction in pain. They were also generally satisfied with the system's usability, highlighting its potential as a home-based treatment option for CNP.

• 1
  Twelve participants regulated their brainwaves in a frequency specific manner and were most successful upregulating the alpha band power.
• 2
  The reduction in pain experienced was statistically significant in 12 and clinically significant (greater than 30%) in 8 participants.
• 3
  Nine participants who completed the final assessment reported a high level of satisfaction (QUESQ, 4.5 ± 0.8), naming effectiveness, ease of use and comfort as main priorities.