EEG normalization
Research Papers
EEG feedback training of epileptic patients: Clinical and electroencephalographic analysis
To evaluate the clinical efficacy and mechanisms underlying EEG feedback training of epileptic patients, 5 adult patients with poorly controlled seizures were studied for 4–10 months during which quantitative analysis of seizures, the EEG, and serum anticonvulsant levels was conducted. Sustained seizure reduction did not occur during the first 4–5 weeks in which feedback signals were presented randomly in relation to the EEG. When feedback was then made contingent upon central 9–14 c/sec activity, seizures declined by 60% in 3 patients. Power spectral analysis showed upward shifts in EEG frequency, decreases in abnormal slow activity, and enhancement of alpha rhythm activity as a function of contingent training, but no specific EEG change was associated with seizure reduction in all patients. No evidence was obtained for the hypothesized involvement of a ‘sensorimotor rhythm’ or motor inhibition in the training effects. The lack of effect in two patients could not be attributed to insufficient training, lack of motivation, or to differences in seizure classification. A second phase of research showed that continued laboratory training was both sufficient and necessary for maintaining clinical and EEG effects. Results indicate that: (1) significant seizure reductions can occur with EEG feedback training which are not related to placebo effects, non-specific factors or to changes in medication; (2) EEG changes associated with such training can best be described as ‘normalization’; (3) continued clinical investigation of EEG feedback training as a non-pharmacological adjunct to conventional therapy appears justified.
View Full Paper →Reduction of seizures and normalization of the EEG in a severe epileptic following sensorimotor biofeedback training: Preliminary study
Sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) biofeedback training was attempted in a 13-year-old male with frequent epileptic seizures. Prior to training the subject was averaging almost eight clinical seizures an hour. The SMR filter was tuned sharply to 12 ± 1 Hz. Feedback was conducted over approximately six months and continues to the present. In that time the subject's percentage of SMR increased from about 10%, prior to training, to 65% after the 34th training session. Correspondingly, his rate of clinical seizures decreased by a factor of 10 and a significant reduction in percentage of epileptiform discharges was noted. Beginning with trial 35, the subject was provided feedback of epileptiform activity in combination with 12 Hz activity. The combined effect of these two treatment variables was to reduce the trial-to-trial variance in the dependent variables of interest.
View Full Paper →Ready to Optimize Your Brain?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss eeg normalization and how neurofeedback training can help
Or call us directly at 855-88-BRAIN
View Programs & Pricing →