What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback and the Brain

What is neurofeedback? Neurofeedback therapy, also known as EEG biofeedback or simply neurofeedback, is a modern medical breakthrough which allows doctors to treat neurological diseases and disorders (or even minor problems) as they never have before. Doctors and patients, working together, are able to modify brainwave activity that has gone awry and subsequently caused unwanted issues or symptoms. Neurofeedback therapy is currently being used for a litany of neurological issues, and scientific research has back up the claim that it is an effective treatment method. Conditions neurofeedback is currently used to treat include:

• ADD/ADHD
• Anxiety
• Autism
• Chronic Pain
• Depression
• Fibromyalgia
• Headaches (Migraines, Tension Headaches)
• Insomnia
• Post Stroke Syndrome
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

 Now that you have a general overview, let’s ask a more practical question: “What is neurofeedback doing to in the brain?” First, let’s talk a bit about the amazing human brain. Believe it or not, your brain wants to function properly at all times. For whatever reason, genetics or environment, between the billions of neurons, synapses, and chemical reactions taking place everyday inside our heads, things can get a little off kilter. Brainwaves can become dysregulated, and may need a simple kick in the butt to get back on track. Once they do get back on track, however, they tend to stay there – and that is a true testament to how incredible our bodies are. Neurofeedback therapy serves as a catalyst for positive change in the brain, providing it with training so it can self-regulate. This remarkable therapy leverages the brains natural want to operate as one highly-functioning whole and harnesses that trait through guided brain exercises to treat some of the horrible disorders we listed earlier.

What is Treatment Like?

Now you may ask, “What is neurofeedback therapy like?” Well, here’s what is certainly is not: painful, tiresome, or harmful. The therapy is all completely noninvasive, has never produced a recognized side effect, and is meant to set you up for long-term independence – not a lifelong relationship with the doctor’s office. Treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment of each patient’s brainwave patterns, whereupon doctors will identify which ones have gone off track. After this doctors will develop a treatment plan and guide patients through targeted brain exercises using nothing more than EEG sensors and a monitor. No currents are ever sent into the brain, its patterns are simply read and interpreted – this is the feedback part of neurofeedback – so we know we are making lasting changes. The number of visits depends on the gravity of the neurological problem, but the bottom line is this: when treatment is complete, your brain will be keeping you out of the doctor’s office all by itself. What is neurofeedback not doing as a current part of your regimen?

Learn more about NEUROFEEDBACK THERAPY