About Neurofeedback
(EEG Biofeedback)

Neurofeedback:  Underlying Principles Nerve cells in the brain generate electrical signals which can be detected by small external electrodes placed loosely on the scalp and earlobes. The sum total of the brain's electrical activity is called the brainwave. Various components of the brainwave are associated with specific mental states and activities. For instance, high levels of a brainwave component referred to as the theta wave are associated with difficulty maintaining attention, whereas a different component, the beta wave, is correlated with more effective concentration.

Technique

Neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback that gives a person feedback about his or her own brainwaves, provides the patient with a representation of the various components of the brainwave. The patient can see how the signals respond to his or her efforts to change their levels. By correlating the response of the various components of the brainwave with these efforts, a person can learn to control some aspects of the brain's activity. With practice and training, most people can acquire skill in regulating the signals sufficient to improve such states as sleep, concentration, relaxation or attention.

The brainwave obtained from the scalp electrodes is amplified and then processed by a computer, which resolves the brainwave into its different components and generates a display from them. The signal levels may be shown graphically or used to control the rate of activity of a video display, similar to a video game. Alternately they may be used to generate an audio signal. Electrode placement is chosen to optimize the specific signal components relevant to the problem or condition being treated.

Indications and Benefits

Neurofeedback has proven effective in treating, among other things, attention deficit disorder in both children and adults, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, headaches, seizures and various emotional disturbances, and may improve a person's attention, focus and concentration and his or her ability to organize material and complete tasks. A person may also acquire greater control over impulsive behavior. People also find neurofeedback a useful tool in achieving specific goals, such as improved SAT scores or sports performance. People of any age may benefit from this technique. Typically, 10 to 40 sessions or more are necessary to obtain maximum benefit from neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback has been used to help children with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and works by allowing them to gain control over brain functions associated with attention. It also appears to be generally useful in helping people pay attention to tasks that make extreme demands on their attention.