A comprehensive bibliography of scientific research can be found at ISNR.org.
While we are not licensed physicians and do not claim to diagnose or treat any specific condition, we are very good at enhancing overall brain function. Many individuals have reported experiencing relief from symptoms related to various conditions through our approach.
Individuals with attention challenges often experience a range of symptoms, including easy distractibility, impulsiveness, and difficulty maintaining focus. It’s important to understand that these challenges are not a sign of laziness or a psychological issue but are related to brain function. While medications are commonly prescribed to address these symptoms, neurofeedback offers a different approach by training the brain itself.
Neurofeedback helps improve self-control and focus, providing a valuable alternative to medication. Many users of neurofeedback find that it helps them enhance their ability to concentrate, reduce impulsive behaviors, and better manage their actions over time. Consistent neurofeedback sessions have been shown to support significant improvements in attention and behavior, making it a promising option for those seeking a non-medication approach. ADD/ADHD
by Arns M, de Ridder S, Strehl U, Breteler M and Coenen A
Journal of Clinical EEG & Neuroscience, July, 2009
ABSTRACT
Since the first reports of neurofeedback treatment in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 1976, many studies have investigated the effects of neurofeedback on different symptoms of ADHD such as inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. This technique is also used by many practitioners, but the question as to the evidence-based level of this treatment is still unclear. In this study selected research on neurofeedback treatment for ADHD was collected and a meta-analysis was performed.
by Hirshberg LM
Expert Review Neurotherapeutics, 7(4), 315-319
ABSTRACT
Although methodological weaknesses limited early research into electroencephalograpic (EEG) biofeedback (EBF) for treatment of attention-deficit/hyperacticity disorder (ADHD), recent stronger randomized controlled trials have provided substantial, but not yet conclusive, empirical support. Additional support is found in research on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) feedback and brain-computer interface (BCI) models which involve feedback-guided learning to achieve control over neural activation.
by Friel PN
Alternative Medicine Review, Volume 12, #2, June, 2007, pp146-151
ABSTRACT
Electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback, also known as neurofeedback, is a promising alternative treatment for patients with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). EEG biofeedback therapy rewards scalp EEG frequencies that are associated with relaxed attention, and suppresses frequencies associated with under- or over-arousal.
By Monastra VJ, Lynn S, Linden M, Lubar JF, Gruzelier J, LaVaque TJ
ABSTRACT
Historically, pharmacological treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been considered to be the only type of interventions effective for reducing the core symptoms of this condition. However, during the past three decades, a series of case and controlled group studies examining the effects of EEG biofeedback have reported improved attention and behavioral control, increased cortical activation on quantitative electroencephalographic examination, and gains on tests of intelligence and academic achievement in response to this type of treatment.
By Nash JK
ABSTRACT
Significant public health concerns exist regarding our current level of success in treating ADHD. Medication management is very helpful in 60-70% of patients. Side effects, lack of compliance and the fact that stimulant medications cannot be given late in the day limit the benefits largely to school hours.
By Lingenfelter JE
ABSTRACT
The following is a review of the most recent literature regarding the efficacy of EEG Neurofeedback in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders.
by Campbell Daley K
ABSTRACT
In her recent paper, Update on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, published in Current Opinion in Pediatrics, Katie Campbell Daley reviewed the research and practice standards on treatment of ADHD. Dr. Campbell is on the staff of the Department of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Boston and in the Department of Pediatrics of the Harvard Medical School
For those dealing with overwhelming stress and constant worry, life can often feel exhausting and fraught with tension. Many individuals find it hard to focus due to intense internal preoccupation or become fixated on specific concerns. While signs of distress might be visible in nervous behaviors, sometimes the struggle is less apparent, with some people seeming calm on the surface while their thoughts are persistently disruptive, affecting their sleep and overall quality of life. These individuals may find themselves trapped in a cycle of worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, unable to fully engage with the present.
The best way to address these challenges is by learning techniques to calm and quiet the mind. This approach offers hope and empowers individuals to regain control over their lives. Biofeedback and EEG neurofeedback are two effective tools that can quickly and significantly help manage these symptoms. These well-established technologies have a proven track record of success, teaching people how to reduce their stress levels and maintain a state of calm. By utilizing these methods, individuals can better manage their internal struggles and improve their overall well-being. Anxiety
Duke, Gloria PhD, RN (Professor)1; Yotter, Courtney N. MS, CCRP, PMP (Statistical Consultant)2; Sharifian, Beverly MS, APCC (Associate Professional Clinical Counselor and Psychometrist)3; Duke, Gary MA, LPC (Counselor, IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback Practitioner)4; Petersen, Sandra DNP, APRN, FNP-BD, GNP-BC, PMHNP-BE, FAANP (Professor)5
ABSTRACT
The world faces a mental health crisis with elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, leaving a profound impact on daily quality of life (QOL). Current treatments show varying degrees of efficacy and carry burdensome challenges. Evidence exists for use of an innovative neurotechnology to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the science is lacking for use in the general population.
D Scheinost, T Stoica, J Saksa, X Papademetris, RT Constable, C Pittenger and M Hampson From Translational Psychiatry (2013)
ABSTRACT
Since the first reports of neurofeedback treatment in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 1976, many studies have investigated the effects of neurofeedback on different symptoms of ADHD such as inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. This technique is also used by many practitioners, but the question as to the evidence-based level of this treatment is still unclear. In this study selected research on neurofeedback treatment for ADHD was collected and a meta-analysis was performed.
Experiencing feelings of sadness or low mood from time to time is quite common and often resolves on its own. However, for some individuals, these feelings persist over a longer period, affecting their daily life. Research indicates that this ongoing sadness may have a neurological basis rather than purely psychological. Specific brain patterns are often associated with prolonged feelings of unhappiness. Neurofeedback offers a promising approach to address these issues by training the brain to adopt healthier mood regulation patterns. Many people notice improvements after just a few sessions, although continued training can help the brain fully develop the ability to manage mood independently. Depression
Duke, Gloria PhD, RN (Professor)1; Yotter, Courtney N. MS, CCRP, PMP (Statistical Consultant)2; Sharifian, Beverly MS, APCC (Associate Professional Clinical Counselor and Psychometrist)3; Duke, Gary MA, LPC (Counselor, IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback Practitioner)4; Petersen, Sandra DNP, APRN, FNP-BD, GNP-BC, PMHNP-BE, FAANP (Professor)5
ABSTRACT
The world faces a mental health crisis with elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, leaving a profound impact on daily quality of life (QOL). Current treatments show varying degrees of efficacy and carry burdensome challenges. Evidence exists for use of an innovative neurotechnology to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the science is lacking for use in the general population.
David E. J. Linden, Isabelle Habes, Stephen J. Johnston, Stefanie Linden, Ranjit Tatineni, Leena Subramanian, Bettina Sorger, David Healy1, Rainer Goebe
ABSTRACT
Many patients show no or incomplete responses to current pharmacological or psychological therapies for depression. Here we explored the feasibility of a new brain self-regulation technique that integrates psychological and neurobiological approaches through neurofeedback with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). In a proof-of-concept study, eight patients with depression learned to upregulate brain areas involved in the generation of positive emotions (such as the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) and insula) during four neurofeedback sessions. Their clinical symptoms, as assessed with the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HDRS), improved significantly. A control group that underwent a training procedure with the same cognitive strategies but without neurofeedback did not improve clinically. Randomized blinded clinical trials are now needed to exclude possible placebo effects and to determine whether fMRI-based neurofeedback might become a useful adjunct to current therapies for depression.
Many people mistakenly believe that substance dependence stems from a lack of self-discipline, but it is actually a physiological issue, not just a psychological one. Those struggling with substance dependence may be unfairly labeled as “weak” by their loved ones, but it’s important to recognize that substance dependence is a complex condition that poses significant challenges. Individuals dealing with this issue often experience a range of emotions, including guilt, shame, anger, and frustration.
Substance dependence is a brain-based condition that can profoundly impact various aspects of life. It’s also common for those facing substance dependence to encounter other mental health challenges, such as persistent sadness, mood swings, and excessive worry. Neurofeedback offers a targeted approach to addressing the brain-based aspects of substance dependence. By retraining the brain, neurofeedback helps individuals develop a state of calm, focus, and relaxation, which can enhance clarity of thought. This training lays a strong foundation for recovery, supporting long-term coping skills and reducing the risk of relapse. Addiction
Fateme Dehghani-Arani, Reza Rostami, and Hosein Nadali
Published online: 20 April 2013
ABSTRACT
Psychological improvements in patients with substance use disorders have been reported after neurofeedback treatment. However, neurofeedback has not been commonly accepted as a treatment for substance dependence. This study was carried out to examine the effectiveness of this therapeutic method for opiate dependence disorder. The specific aim was to investigate whether treatment leads to any changes in mental health and substance craving. In this experimental study with a pre-post test design, 20 opiate dependent patients undergoing Methadone or Buprenorphine maintenance treatment were examined and matched and randomized into two groups. While both experimental and control groups received their usual maintenance treatment, the experimental group received 30 sessions of neurofeedback treatment in addition. The neurofeedback treatment consisted of sensory motor rhythm training on Cz, followed by an alpha-theta protocol on Pz. Data from the general health questionnaire and a heroin craving questionnaire were collected before and after treatment. Multivariate analysis of covariance showed that the experimental group achieved improvement in somatic symptoms, depression, and total score in general mental health; and in anticipation of positive outcome, desire to use opioid, and relief from withdrawal of craving in comparison with the control group. The study supports the effectiveness of neurofeedback training as a therapeutic method in opiate dependence disorder, in supplement to pharmacotherapy.
When dealing with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it’s crucial to focus on the brain itself. Neurofeedback offers a targeted approach by essentially “exercising” the brain. This therapy specifically addresses the areas affected by the TBI, aiming to improve various symptoms such as speech, movement, mood regulation, behavior control, and headache reduction.
Neurofeedback is effective because it helps the brain self-regulate these functions. For those recovering from a TBI, neurofeedback can be particularly beneficial for enhancing speech. By bathing the brain in positive energy, neurofeedback strengthens and supports speech. In fact, some neuropsychologists suggest that neurofeedback may be rehabilitating the damaged speech areas of the brain, rather than merely compensating for their loss.
Ming-Xiong Huang, Ashley Robb Swan, Annemarie Angeles Quinto, Scott Matthews, Deborah L. Harrington, Sharon Nichols, Barry J. Bruder, Corey C. Snook, Charles W. Huang, Dewleen G. Baker, Roland R. Lee
ABSTRACT
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a leading cause of sustained impairments in military service members, Veterans, and the general civilian population. However, few treatments are available for mTBI, partially because the mechanism of persistent mTBI deficits is not fully understood. The present study used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to investigate neuronal changes in the brain in individuals with mTBI in response to a passive neurofeedback-based treatment program called IASIS. This program involved applying low-intensity pulses using transcranial electrical stimulation (LIP-tES) with electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring. Study participants included 6 individuals with mTBI and persistent post-concussive symptoms (PCS). IASIS treatments were applied twice weekly for a period of 6 weeks. MEG exams were performed at baseline and follow-up to evaluate the effect of the IASIS treatment on brain functioning. We focused on changes in MEG source-imaging measures of abnormal slowfrequency activity and its relationship to changes in PCS. The results showed that at the baseline MEG exam, all participants had abnormal slow-wave signals. In the MEG exam following the IASIS treatment, the participants showed significantly reduced abnormal slow-waves in approximately the same brain areas that generated abnormal slow-waves at the baseline exam. Significant reductions in abnormal MEG slow-wave generation strongly correlated with significant reductions in PCS scores after the IASIS treatment. Altogether, the present study demonstrates, for the first time, neuroimaging-based documentation of the effect of LIP-tES treatment on brain functioning in individuals with mTBI.
Maria Pachalska1, MaÅ‚gorzata Åukowicz, Juri D. Kropotov, Izabela Herman-Sucharska, Jan Talar The Medical Science Monitor, 2011
ABSTRACT
This article examines the effectiveness of differentiated rehabilitation programs for a patient with frontal syndrome after severe TBI and long-term coma. We hypothesized that there would be a small response to relative beta training, and a good response to rTMS, applied to regulate the dynamics of brain function. Case Report M. L-S, age 26, suffered from anosognosia, executive dysfunction, and behavioral changes, after a skiing accident and prolonged coma, rendering him unable to function independently in many situations of everyday life. Only slight progress was made after traditional rehabilitation. The patient took part in 20 sessions of relative beta training (program A) and later in 20 sessions of rTMS (program B); both programs were combined with behavioral training. We used standardized neuropsychological testing, as well as ERPs before the experiment, after the completion of program A, and again after the completion of program B. As hypothesized, patient M.L-S showed small improvements in executive dysfunction and behavioral disorders after the conclusion of program A, and major improvement after program B. Similarly, in physiological changes the patient showed small improvement after relative beta training and a significant improvement of the P300 NOGO component after the rTMS program. Conclusions The rTMS program produced larger physiological and behavioral changes than did relative beta training. A combination of different neurotherapeutical approaches (such as neurofeedback, rTMS, tDCS) can be suggested for similar severe cases of TBI. ERPs can be used to assess functional brain changes induced by neurotherapeutical programs.
At least 40 million Americans each year suffer from chronic, long-term, sleep disorders. An additional 20 million experience occasional sleep problems. Neurofeedback is a powerful tool for helping people fall asleep and stay asleep. Over 3,000 licensed health professionals such as psychologists, therapists, and doctors now use this new technology daily with patients. As a group, they report significant and consistent improvements for client sleep problems. Many brain training options can help as well as making lifestyle changes and changes in sleep hygiene. A skilled neurofeedback clinician can review many different options with clients to help them assess what’s most appropriate for their problem, including several brain regulating technologies such as Alpha-Stim and Brain Music.
Arns M, Kenemans JL. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23099283
ABSTRACT
In this review article an overview of the history and current status of neurofeedback for the treatment of ADHD and insomnia is provided. Recent insights suggest a central role of circadian phase delay, resulting in sleep onset insomnia (SOI) in a sub-group of ADHD patients. Chronobiological treatments, such as melatonin and early morning bright light, affect the suprachiasmatic nucleus. This nucleus has been shown to project to the noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC) thereby explaining the vigilance stabilizing effects of such treatments in ADHD. It is hypothesized that both Sensori-Motor Rhythm (SMR) and Slow-Cortical Potential (SCP) neurofeedback impact on the sleep spindle circuitry resulting in increased sleep spindle density, normalization of SOI and thereby affect the noradrenergic LC, resulting in vigilance stabilization. After SOI is normalized, improvements on ADHD symptoms will occur with a delayed onset of effect. Therefore, clinical trials investigating new treatments in ADHD should include assessments at follow-up as their primary endpoint rather than assessments at outtake. Furthermore, an implication requiring further study is that neurofeedback could be stopped when SOI is normalized, which might result in fewer sessions.
While neurofeedback training can provide immediate relief from migraines, its primary goal is not to stop individual attacks. Instead, neurofeedback aims to significantly reduce the intensity and frequency of migraines over time, offering lasting relief for those who suffer from them.
A recent study by Deborah Stokes, Ph.D., a neurofeedback specialist in Alexandria, VA, highlights the long-term benefits of this approach. Co-authored with Martha S. Lappin, the study, titled “Neurofeedback and Biofeedback with 37 Migraineurs: A Clinical Outcome Study,” demonstrated substantial improvement in migraine management. The research revealed that 70% of participants experienced a notable reduction in the frequency of their migraines through neurofeedback.
Deborah A Stokes, Martha S Lappin Behavioral and Brain Functions 2010, 6:9
ABSTRACT
Traditional peripheral biofeedback has grade A evidence for effectively treating migraines. Two newer forms of neurobiofeedback, EEG biofeedback and hemoencephalography biofeedback were combined with thermal handwarming biofeedback to treat 37 migraineurs in a clinical outpatient setting. Methods: 37 migraine patients underwent an average of 40 neurofeedback sessions combined with thermal biofeedback in an outpatient biofeedback clinic. All patients were on at least one type of medication for migraine; preventive, abortive or rescue. Patients kept daily headache diaries a minimum of two weeks prior to treatment and throughout treatment showing symptom frequency, severity, duration and medications used. Treatments were conducted an average of three times weekly over an average span of 6 months. Headache diaries were examined after treatment and a formal interview was conducted. After an average of 14.5 months following treatment, a formal interview was conducted in order to ascertain duration of treatment effects.
Pain is one of the key sensory systems that alerts us to our body’s status. In our busy lives, we often see pain as more than just an inconvenience—it can feel like a significant disruption. However, pain serves an important purpose, acting as a valuable signal that prompts us to pause and address our well-being. For those dealing with chronic pain, neurofeedback offers a promising approach to alleviate discomfort. It can help manage pain more effectively, even in severe cases, by influencing how the brain processes pain signals.
by Siegfried Othmer, Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
Pain is one of several sensory systems that keep us apprised of the status of our bodies. As we hurry through our daily lives, we usually view pain at the very least as an inconvenience, if not a major disruption. It’s fortunate that we have our pain sensors – they provide a valuable warning to us that we need to stop and take care of ourselves. Pain has considerable survival value, but when an injury has healed and the pain continues unabated, or when pain seems to have no obvious connection to any injury, it no longer serves a useful purpose. Pain of this type is referred to as chronic pain, and once you have fallen under its sway, it may be very difficult to escape. The Challenge of Pain Management The management of chronic pain has always been a medical challenge. Treatment often involves increasing doses of a variety of medications in an effort to gain a measure of relief. In some instances, the pain is significantly reduced with the use of medication, but when the drugs are removed the pain returns, and so the meds become a more or less permanent fixture of life, often resulting in drug dependence or even addiction. In other cases even heavy use of medication provides the sufferer little or no relief; the brain simply adjusts to the presence of the medications and demands more, while the pain continues.
Over the past 15 years, neurofeedback training has been used by hundreds of clinicians with thousands of children on the autism spectrum. Numerous research studies have supported these efforts, highlighting the benefits of this approach. One of the first improvements that parents often observe as their child begins neurofeedback training is a noticeable increase in calmness. Many parents report that their child handles emotions more effectively and becomes less easily overwhelmed. While there are many positive changes that can occur, these initial benefits are frequently the most apparent.
Nada Pop-Jordanova, Tatjana Zorcec, Aneta Demerdzieva, Zoran Gucev Pop-Jordanova et al. Nonlinear Biomedical Physics 2010
ABSTRACT
Autistic spectrum disorders are a group of neurological and developmental disorders associated with social, communication, sensory, behavioral and cognitive impairments, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, activities, or interests. The aim of this study was a) to analyze QEEG findings of autistic patients and to compare the results with data base; and b) to introduce the calculation of spectrum weighted frequency (brain rate) as an indicator of general mental arousal in these patients. Results: Results for Q-EEG shows generally increased delta-theta activity in frontal region of the brain. Changes in QEEG pattern appeared to be in a non-linear correlation with maturational processes. Brain rate measured in CZ shows slow brain activity (5. 86) which is significantly lower than normal and corresponds to low general mental arousal. Recent research has shown that autistic disorders have as their basis disturbances of neural connectivity. Neurofeedback seems capable of remediating such disturbances when these data are considered as part of treatment planning. Conclusions: Prognosis of this pervasive disorder depends on the intellectual abilities: the better intellectual functioning, the possibilities for life adaptation are higher QEEG shows generally increased delta-theta activity in frontal region of the brain which is related to poor cognitive abilities. Brain rate measured in CZ shows slow brain activity related to under arousal. Pharmacotherapy combined with behavior therapy, social support and especially neurofeedback technique promise slight improvements.
Severe stress from traumatic experiences can be deeply challenging and often requires effective treatment. Many individuals seek relief through various therapies and medications but find limited results. Neurofeedback presents a promising alternative by helping the brain achieve a calmer state and better manage stress responses. It specifically targets the brain areas affected by intense stress. Clients frequently notice initial improvements in sleep quality, with gradual enhancements in other symptoms following. With ongoing neurofeedback training, individuals can attain a stable, self-sustained state of calm. Once this stability is achieved, the frequency of neurofeedback sessions can be reduced, eventually leading to fewer treatments.
Alexander C. McFarlan
ABSTRACT
The gradual emergence of symptoms following exposure to traumatic events has presented a major conceptual challenge to psychiatry. The mechanism that causes the progressive escalation of symptoms with the passage of time leading to delayed onset post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) involves the process of sensitization and kindling. The development of traumatic memories at the time of stress exposure represents a major vulnerability through repeated environmental triggering of the increasing dysregulation of an individual’s neurobiology. An increasing body of evidence demonstrates how the increased allostatic load associated with PTSD is associated with a significant body of physical morbidity in the form of chronic musculoskeletal pain, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, obesity and cardiovascular disease. This increasing body of literature suggests that the effects of traumatic stress need to be considered as a major environmental challenge that places individual’s physical and psychological health equally at risk. This broader perspective has important implications for developing treatments that address the underlying dysregulation of cortical arousal and neurohormonal abnormalities following exposure to traumatic stress.
When someone struggles with persistent repetitive behaviors or thoughts, it can be challenging to manage daily life. Research indicates that these issues often relate to how certain areas in the front of the brain function. If these brain regions are not working optimally, it can lead to difficulty in controlling repetitive thoughts or actions. Many therapists and practitioners using neurofeedback have observed significant improvements in their clients’ symptoms. Individuals who undergo neurofeedback training often report a noticeable reduction in the need to consciously control unwanted thoughts and behaviors, experiencing a much quieter mind. Neurofeedback helps the brain learn to respond in a more balanced and healthy way, leading to improved overall well-being. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Tanju Siirmeli and Ayben Exrteme Clinical EEG & Neuroscience, Volume 42 No 3
ABSTRACT
While neurofeedback has been extensively studied in the treatment of many disorders, there have been only three published reports, by D.C. Hammond, on its clinical effects in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). In this paper the efficacy of QEEG-guided neurofeedback for subjects with OCD was studied as a case series. The goal was to examine the clinical course of the OCD symptoms and assess the efficacy of QEEG guided neurofeedback training on clinical outcome measures. Thirty-six drug resistant subjects with OCD were assigned to 9-84sessions of QEEG-guided neurofeedback treatment. Daily sessions lasted 60minutes where 2 sessions with half-hour applications with a 30 minute rest given between sessions were conducted per day. Thirty-three outof36 subjects who received neurofeedback training showed clinical improvement according to the Yale-Brown obsessive-compulsive scale (Y-BOCS). The Minnesota multiphasic inventory(MMPI) was ad-ministered before and after treatment to 17 of the subjects. The MMPI results showed significant improvements not only in OCD measures, but all of the MMP1 scores showed a general decrease. Finally ,according to the physicians’ evaluation of the subjects using the clinical global impression scale (CGI), 33 of the 36 subjects were rated as improved. Thirty-six of the subjects were followed for an average of 26months after completing the study. According to follow-up interviews conducted with them and/or their family members 19of the subjects maintained the improvements in their OCD symptoms. This study provides good evidence for the efficacy of neurofeedback treatment in OCD. The results of this study encourage further controlled research in this area.
A stroke occurs when brain cells are deprived of oxygen, leading to sudden damage. This can happen due to a blockage in blood flow or a rupture in an artery supplying the brain. As a result, individuals may experience sudden difficulties with speech, memory issues, or paralysis on one side of the body.
Ethan R. Buch,Amirali Modir Shanechi, Alissa D. Fourkas, Cornelia Weber, Niels Birbaumer, and Leonardo G. Cohen Brain: A Journal Of Neurology 2012
ABSTRACT
Chronic stroke patients with heterogeneous lesions, but no direct damage to the primary sensorimotor cortex, are capable of longitudinally acquiring the ability to modulate sensorimotor rhythms using grasping imagery of the affected hand. Volitional modulation of neural activity can be used to drive grasping functions of the paralyzed hand through a brain–computer interface. The neural substrates underlying this skill are not known. Here, we investigated the impact of individual patient’s lesion pathology on functional and structural network integrity related to this volitional skill. Magnetoencephalography data acquired throughout training was used to derive functional networks. Structural network models and local estimates of extralesional white matter microstructure were constructed using T1-weighted and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging data. We employed a graph theoretical approach to characterize emergent properties of distributed interactions between nodal brain regions of these networks. We report that inter-individual variability in patients’ lesions led to differential impairment of functional and structural network characteristics related to successful post-training sensorimotor rhythm modulation skill. Patients displaying greater magnetoencephalography global cost-efficiency, a measure of information integration within the distributed functional network, achieved greater levels of skill. Analysis of lesion damage to structural network connectivity revealed that the impact on nodal betweenness centrality of the ipsilesional primary motor cortex, a measure that characterizes the importance of a brain region for integrating visuomotor information between frontal and parietal cortical regions and related thalamic nuclei, correlated with skill. Edge betweenness centrality, an analogous measure, which assesses the role of specific white matter fibre pathways in network integration, showed a similar relationship between skill and a portion of the ipsilesional superior longitudinal fascicle connecting premotor and posterior parietal visuomotor regions known to be crucially involved in normal grasping behaviour. Finally, estimated white matter microstructure integrity in regions of the contralesional superior longitudinal fascicle adjacent to primary sensorimotor and posterior parietal cortex, as well as grey matter volume co-localized to these specific regions, positively correlated with sensorimotor rhythm modulation leading to successful brain–computer interface control. Thus, volitional modulation of ipsilesional neural activity leading to control of paralyzed hand grasping function through a brain–computer interface after longitudinal training relies on structural and functional connectivity in both ipsilesional and contralesional parietofrontal pathways involved in visuomotor information processing. Extant integrity of this structural network may serve as a future predictor of response to longitudinal therapeutic interventions geared towards training sensorimotor rhythms in the lesioned brain, secondarily improving grasping function through brain–computer interface applications.
A seizure disorder can be thought of as a condition where the brain’s stability is disrupted. Neurofeedback training offers a way to help individuals regulate and stabilize brain activity. Research has shown that neurofeedback can be highly effective in reducing seizure frequency. Notably, this effectiveness was initially observed in studies involving cats, where those receiving neurofeedback training experienced significantly fewer seizures when exposed to certain chemicals compared to those who did not receive the training. These promising findings have paved the way for further research and applications in humans, highlighting the potential benefits of neurofeedback for managing seizure disorders.
Beth A. Lopour and Andrew J. Szericorresponding Journal of Computational Neuroscience, (2010)
ABSTRACT
Here we present several refinements to a model of feedback control for the suppression of epileptic seizures. We utilize a stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) model of the human cortex. First, we verify the strong convergence of numerical solutions to this model, paying special attention to the sharp spatial changes that occur at electrode edges. This allows us to choose appropriate step sizes for our simulations; because the spatial step size must be small relative to the size of an electrode in order to resolve its electrical behavior, we are able to include a more detailed electrode profile in the simulation. Then, based on evidence that the mean soma potential is not the variable most closely related to the measurement of a cortical surface electrode, we develop a new model for this. The model is based on the currents flowing in the cortex and is used for a simulation of feedback control. The simulation utilizes a new control algorithm incorporating the total integral of the applied electrical potential. Not only does this succeed in suppressing the seizure-like oscillations, but it guarantees that the applied signal will be charge-balanced and therefore unlikely to cause cortical damage.
Fibromyalgia is a prevalent condition characterized by persistent pain in the muscles and soft tissues, often accompanied by fatigue, weakness, and sleep issues. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood. The term “fibromyalgia” combines Greek and Latin words: “myos” (muscle), “algos” (pain), and “fibro” (fibrous tissue), reflecting the areas affected by the syndrome. Although it is often compared to arthritis due to its pain symptoms, fibromyalgia does not cause joint inflammation or damage like arthritis. Instead, it affects the body’s soft tissues, causing discomfort and impacting overall well-being.
Julia Anna Glombiewski, Kathrin Bernardy and Winfried Häuser www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3776543
ABSTRACT
Biofeedback (BFB) is an established intervention in the rehabilitation of headache and other pain disorders. Little is known about this treatment option for fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The aim of the present review is to integrate and critically evaluate the evidence regarding the efficacy of biofeedback for FMS. Methods. We conducted a literature search using Pubmed, clinicaltrials.gov (National Institute of Health), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, and manual searches. The effect size estimates were calculated using a random-effects model. Results. The literature search produced 123 unique citations. One hundred sixteen records were excluded. The meta-analysis included seven studies (321 patients) on EEG-Biofeedback and EMG-Biofeedback. In comparison to control groups, biofeedback (BFB) significantly reduced pain intensity with a large effect size (g = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.22–1.36). Subgroup analyses revealed that only EMG-BFB and not EEG-BFB significantly reduced pain intensity in comparison to control groups (g = 0.86; 95% CI: 0.11–1.62). BFB did not reduce sleep problems, depression, fatigue, or health-related quality of life in comparison to a control group. Discussion. The interpretation of the results is limited because of a lack of studies on the long-term effects of EMG-BFB in FMS. Further research should focus on the long-term efficacy of BFB in fibromyalgia and on the identification of predictors of treatment response.
