Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is a operant conditioning form of treatment that uses non-invasive sensors, or electrodes which are placed at specific sites on the scalp and ears. The sensors pick up the brain wave patterns which are displayed on the computer screen. Through the use of electrodes, specific areas of the brain can be trained to replace the abnormal patterns with normal brain waves. The computer aids the brain in recognizing the normal patterns. This is done by producing audio signals and visual displays to reinforce the normal patterns when they occur. Once the brain’s normal patters have been restored and maintained, Neurofeedback training is no longer needed. Treatment is normally twenty to forty sessions.

The benefits of Neurofeedback training can include the improvement of such functions as:

Low Energy Neurofeedback (LENS) is a Neurofeedback system which uses very low power radio frequencies ( less than a Trillionth of a Watt) to reduce high amplitudes in slow brainwave activity (delta, theta and alpha), The system works in conjunction with the dominant frequency at a specific brainwave site. The feedback is always changing with the EEG. During treatment the amount of stimulation varies from one to seven seconds per session. The frequency and intensity of the stimulation is tailored to individual reactions. The feedback tends to lower the amplitude of the EEG. During the treatment the subjects sits quietly with eyes closed. The entrainment stimulation is not experienced by the clients, but the results are visable on the computer screen. The treatment supports the brain waves at rest becoming quieter, and at work, more flexible. The treatment tends to be shorter in duration than other Neurofeedback treatmens, with 20 being the average number of sessions.

Benefits:

As with other Neurofeedback systems, The LENS is used with people who have a variety of disorders and symptoms, Research is currently being conducted to evaluate the effects on fibromyalgia. A five year outcome study by Steve Larsen, et al, presented at the ISNR conference , Sept. 2005, showed statistically significant improvement in symptoms for 100 patients . (See link to ISNR for abstract). The benefits of this treatment include the ease of administration and the short term duration of treatment. Occasional side effects such as temporary drowsiness or feelings of elation are easily regulated by modifications in treatment plans.

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