Wearable Technology and Its Role in Neurologic Care: Emerging Issues in Neurology

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Digital Health

Background:

• Consumer wearable devices are increasingly adopted by patients for health monitoring.
• Their use presents emerging challenges and opportunities within neurological care.
• Non-US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared devices require further understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the functions, limitations, and patient effects of non-FDA-cleared wearable technology in neurology.
• To inform neurologic care providers about the implications of consumer wearable adoption.
• To highlight the need for validation of these devices in neurological applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and examples of non-FDA-cleared wearable devices.
• Analysis of common themes regarding device use in patients with neurological conditions.
• Discussion of adherence, engagement, and psychological effects.

Main Results:

• Wearable devices show promise for managing epilepsy, headache, cardiac, and sleep conditions.
• Key issues include patient adherence, long-term engagement, and potential for increased anxiety.
• Significant gaps exist in the validation and understanding of these technologies for clinical use.

Conclusions:

• Consumer wearables have potential in neurology but require further validation.
• Addressing adherence, engagement, and psychological impacts is crucial for successful integration.
• Neurology must critically evaluate and understand these tools before full clinical confidence.