Enhancing migraine self-efficacy and reducing disability through a self-management program

BACKGROUND: Chronic migraine is a primary headache disorder affecting approximately 3-7 million individuals in the United States. This condition is associated with significant individual and societal consequences, causing impaired function and high levels of health care utilization. PURPOSE: The aim of this quasi-experimental single cohort study was to determine if an 8-week outpatient self-management program for chronic migraine would decrease migraine disability and enhance self-efficacy. METHODS: This was a prospective, single cohort, pre- and postintervention pilot study. Fifteen adults aged 18-65 years who met the criteria for diagnosis of chronic migraine were enrolled in the study through convenience sampling. Participants participated in an evidence-based self-management program with multimodal formats including verbal, written, video, and online materials. Outcome measures included migraine disability (using Migraine Disability Assessment tool [MIDAS]), headache self-efficacy (using Headache Management Self-Efficacy Scale [HMSE]), acute medication use, and migraine frequency. Participants also completed a postintervention survey to assess satisfaction. RESULTS: Findings showed a reduction in MIDAS scores, acute medication use, and frequency of migraine. Outcomes also included an increase in HMSE scores and a trend of improved health behaviors. Acute medication use decreased by more than 50%, and frequency of migraine and headache days reduced by close to 40%. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Despite high rates of disability, patient education and self-management programs for chronic migraine are not readily available. The findings of this study encourage use of a hybrid clinic and web-based self-management model to improve migraine disability and self-efficacy.