EEG & Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback as a method of treatment has been around for over 30 years, although it has gained attention mostly in the past few years. It has been used for a variety of conditions which appear to be associated with irregular brain activity including attention deficit disorder with and without hyperactivity. The procedure has also shown promise with certain behavioral disorders, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, minor head injury, poor memory and concentration.
Faqs
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN EEG/QUANTUM NEUROFEEDBACK:
Cognitive Function
Reduction in Depression
Improved Sleep a & Ability to Rest
Stress Reduction
Addictive Behavior Support
Reduction in Anxiety
Memory Enhancement
Academic Performance Enhancement
Fatigue Symptom Improvement
Improved Attention/Focus/Concentration
Enhanced Sports / Artistic Performance
What is an EEG?
EEG or electroencephalography (aka brain scan) measures brain wave activity. It identifies and records brain wave frequencies and specific activity in various sections of the brain.
How does it work?
Sensors are placed on targeted areas of the scalp using conductive paste. The sensors are connected to a computer that measures & records specific brain wave frequencies & identifies areas of dysregulation.
How long does an EEG take?
The entire process is painless & non-invasive and takes less than 30 minutes. Total recording time is only 5 minutes.
What to expect?
Hair is separated to show portions of the scalp. The scalp is cleaned with alcohol & exfoliant. Sensors are then placed on targeted areas of the scalp using a conductive sticky paste. During the scan, you will be asked to be still & quiet. We will also ask you to have your eyes open or closed at certain times.
What is Neurofeedback?
It is physical therapy for your brain.
Once the EEG is analyzed to identify the dysregulation in the brain waves, sensors are placed on the scalp over the area to be trained. Brainwaves are instantly analyzed & converted into animated video displays. The computer extracts specific information about brainwave frequencies. Some frequencies need to be increased while others may need to be suppressed to obtain optimal functioning.
The computer is programmed to reward the brain for increasing or suppressing specific brain wave frequencies in targeted area s. This is done with either visual graphics or music rewards. When the desired brainwaves are functioning at optimal levels, the video advances, and the music plays. When undesirable or less than optimal brain activity is dominant, the video will not advance & the music will not play; thus, the video & music are fully controlled by the person’s brain activity. Eventually the brain is trained to perform dominantly in a more optimal state.
Why is our system referenced as “Quantum Neurofeedback”?
Our Neurofeedback system focuses 100% of the training on 1 or 2 of the most significant areas of the brain identified in your EEG. This allows us to achieve quicker results. In many cases, when we focus on the most critical area initially, it can help other areas improve as a result at the same time. At Be Optimal, we believe priority matters and creates efficiency for healing. The system we have exemplifies just that!
This is contrary to a standard neurofeedback which trains a multitude of brain points at one time resulting in diluted brain training since 100% of the training is spread across a variety of points all at once. This technique may result in a significant number of sessions before results can be seen and why we chose to utilize this unique system.
Additionally, neurofeedback may be complemented by Quantum Neuro Reset Therapy (QNRT), Quantum Neurology or any other technique. Essentially, when your brain is functioning optimally, you can receive, process and integrate the healing even better.
How many sessions will I need?
Your doctor will review your EEG & create a unique Neurofeedback plan just for you. The number of sessions will be determined by your personal EEG results & what you are hoping to achieve with this form of treatment. The frequency will be 1 to 2 times per week.
How long is a neurofeedback session?
Expect the entire process to take approximately 30 minutes. The actual amount of time your brain will be trained is approximately 20 minutes or less.
How will I feel after a neurofeedback session?
It is normal to be tired after a session. Your brain is getting a unique work out. Plan your day accordingly.
What will my hair look like?
We do our best to remove the conductive paste used for the sensors but the best way to truly get it all out is to wash your hair.
SPECIFIC BRAIN WAVE FUNCTIONS
ALPHA:
Associated with conscious relaxation, imagination, visualization & memory. A healthy alpha is essential for learning. Too little alpha inhibits the ability to sleep & quiet the brain. Excessive alpha in the wrong areas of the brain is associated with attention deficits, defiance, and sad mood states.
THETA:
Associated with visual imagery, creative inspiration, insight & intuitive knowledge. Excessive Theta may be associated with poor memory, inability to focus & concentrate, emotional volatility & seizure disorders. Too little Theta is associated with the inability to sleep, rest & quiet the brain, nervousness & lack of wellbeing.
BETA:
Associated with being alert & focused, responsible for computing, arranging, organizing data & problem solving. Beta increases in times of stress or anxiety. Excessive Beta is associated with poor stress tolerance, addictive behaviors & inability to sleep. Too little Beta is associated with lack of energy, sadness, lack of concentration & attentiveness.
GAMMA:
Associated with formation of ideas, language, memory processing & learning. Excessive Gamma is associated with worrying, anxiousness, stubborn & compulsive behaviors. Researchers believe that increasing Gamma levels may be helpful for Alzheimer’s & Autism.
DELTA:
Deep dreamless sleep. This is where physical rejuvenation & healing occurs. Excessive Delta is associated with pain, chronic infection & illness.
SMR (Sensory Motor Rhythm):
SMR is lower spectrum Beta frequencies that occur most often when the body is inactive & helps to reduce the urge to move or fidget. SMR enhancement can be helpful in overcoming restless leg syndrome. High SMR levels are found in athletes & very healthy people. Research has shown that ADD & ADHD may be helped by increasing these brainwaves. Increasing SMR wave benefits include improved concentration, reading speed & energy levels, as well as offering help for sleeplessness, sadness, excessive worry & stress.