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Awake at 3 AM? It Could Be Insomnia

Awake at 3 AM? It could Be Insomnia

Pay Attention To Brain Health

If you are reading this at 3 am in the morning, chances are you may suffer from insomnia or some form of sleep disorder. But consider this: Insomnia can lead to bigger problems such as fatigue, lack of focus, short temper, forgetfulness and mental fog. It is important to determine the root cause of your sleep problems to have any chance to beat it.

When a condition occurs regularly and in a set pattern, it usually signals a chronic condition that goes much deeper…and a lack of sleep may just be a by-product of that core problem.

To determine if a bigger issue is at play, me must first determine the cause of insomnia. Here are 4 main causes of insomnia and sleep disorders:

  • REACTIVE – A response to stressful or traumatic events
  • HABITUAL – Poor evening habits or lifestyle choices
  • METABOLIC – Internal body changes or diet choices
  • NEUROLOGICAL – Brain imbalances and irregular brainwaves

Reactive could be a temporary problem or setback, meaning you might overcome it eventually. Habitual can be both temporary or permanent, depending if you plan on making the necessary lifestyle changes to fix it. Metabolic is more often than not a chronic issue, which means it will not go away on its own. And neurological is definitely a chronic issue, as brainwaves have been permanently altered.

If insomnia or sleep problems are not improving, it may be time for professional help. Neurofeedback is one option that has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate the triggers of insomnia. This computer based technology has decades of research and case studies to support it. The process is safe, non-invasive and drug free.

If you live in the Chicago or North Chicago areas and are looking for a permanent solution that uses no medications, neurofeedback may be right for you. Schedule your FREE evaluation today. Call us now at the number below or use the contact form below.

(847) 670-8544

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Helping a child with ADD/ADHD: What you need to know

Helping a child with ADD/ADHD: What you need to know

Pay Attention To Brain Health

Helping a child with ADD/ADHD: What you need to know

Children with ADD/ADHD generally have deficits in executive function: the ability to think and plan ahead, organize, control impulses, and complete tasks. So a parent must take over as executive, providing extra guidance while a child gradually acquires executive skills of their own.

Although the symptoms of ADHD can be nothing short of exasperating, it’s important to remember that a child with ADHD who is ignoring, annoying, or embarrassing you is not acting willfully. Kids with ADHD may want to sit quietly, clean their rooms or listen to their parents—but they don’t know how to make these things happen.

Having ADHD can be just as frustrating as dealing with someone who has it. Keep this in mind and it will be a lot easier to respond to a child in positive, supportive ways. With patience, compassion, and plenty of support, ADHD can be managed while enjoying a stable, happy home.

For those seeking a quicker and permanent long term solution, neurofeedback has been clinically proven to improve or eliminate the symptoms of ADD and ADHD.

If you live in the Chicago or North Chicago areas and are looking for a permanent solution that uses no medications, neurofeedback may be right for you. Schedule your FREE evaluation today. Call us now at the number below or use the contact form below.

(847) 670-8544

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A Solution To Anxiety And Depression?

A Solution To Anxiety And Depression?

Pay Attention To Brain Health

Alpha Waves May Hold The Key To Recovery

Decades of Brain research may have yielded an answer for why emotions are so hard to manage for some. It has to do with the Alpha waves in our brains.

Alpha waves are one of 4 main brainwaves that exist in every person. They are responsible for regulating our emotional state. Too much alpha can create an overload in the brain, resulting in excess stress, worry or fear. Conversely, too little alpha can slow down the brain’s ability to react to external stimuli, resulting in a lack of desire or ambition. This can result in depression or even suicidal thoughts. So how can one correct these alpha waves? The answer: Neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is a modern computer based technology that can directly target alpha waves and bring them back in balance. These sessions gradually restore healthy brainwaves, which can reduce or eliminate symptoms. The process is safe, non-invasive, drug free and sessions are enjoyable.

If you live in the Chicago or North Chicago areas and are looking for a permanent solution that uses no medications, neurofeedback may be right for you. Schedule your FREE evaluation today. Call us now at the number below or use the contact form below.

(847) 670-8544

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Pay Attention To Brain Health: It's Important

Pay Attention To Brain Health. It’s Important.

Pay Attention To Brain Health

Here’s why neurofeedback can help with most mental health issues:

The brain is like a musical quartet. When all musicians are in sync, the sound is harmonious. But if one musician is off, it can affect the whole performance. Brainwaves operate in much the same way, working together to keep the brain working smoothly.

Over 50 years of research by health professionals have shown that a brain that is not in balance can lead to many neurological issues, like depression, anxiety, ADHD, migraines, memory loss, sleep issues and more!

Our 2 step process may be the answer:

  1. QEEG Brain map – We scan the surface of your brain to identify the areas of the brain that are out of balance. The process is painless, non-invasive and very accurate. A report of findings is included.
  2. Neurofeedback sessions – These sessions directly target brainwaves to correct them. Sessions are enjoyable and easy. Neurofeedback is backed by 50 years of qualified research.

If you live in the Chicago or North Chicago areas and are looking for a permanent solution that uses no medications, neurofeedback may be right for you. Schedule your FREE evaluation today. Call us now at the number below or use the contact form below.

(847) 670-8544

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Neurofeedback digital brain with hands

What is Neurofeedback and How Does It help Brain Health? [video]

What is Neurofeedback and How Does It help Brain Health? [video]

What Is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a computer-based system that corrects brainwaves safely while you watch a movie or listen to music. Irregular brainwaves are responsible for many neurological conditions such as ADHD, learning issues, anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraines, memory loss, and more.

The Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA) defines EEG biofeedback (also called neurofeedback) as:

“EEG Biofeedback is employed to modify the electrical activity of the CNS including: EEG, event related potentials, slow cortical potentials, and other electrical activity either of subcortical or cortical origin. Neurofeedback is a specialized application of biofeedback of brainwave data in an operant conditioning paradigm. The method is used to treat clinical conditions as well as to enhance performance”

Think Of Your Brain As A Musical Quartet.

When all musicians are in tune, the sound is harmonious. But if one musician is out of tune, the performance will sound bad. Neurofeedback tunes your brainwaves so that your brain can operate more efficiently. This can reduce or eliminate symptoms, helping you become more focused and efficient. Brainwaves are corrected over multiple sessions while you watch a movie or listen to music. It really is that simple. Your brain does all the work.

How Do We Determine Your Condition?

A brain map allows us to scan each section of the brain and identify which areas are running too fast or slow. The process is non-invasive, safe, only 20 minutes, and incredibly accurate. The brain map report will identify problem areas that can be corrected using neurofeedback.

How Do I Know Neurofeedback Works?

Neurofeedback has over 50 years of research and case studies proving its effectiveness. It is used by thousands of health professionals worldwide, including the NFL and the United States Veterans Administration to treat concussions and brain injuries.

Neurofeedback is non-invasive, drug and radiation-free, cost effective, enjoyable, and results are often permanent. Neurofeedback is the right choice for those who know that drugs won\’t fix their problem and those who have tried other doctor-recommended remedies without success. Many health issues start in the brain. The best solution is the one that specifically targets the brain where these problems reside. That is why neurofeedback is so effective. Learn more about neurofeedback and view our special offers below.

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Inflammation Can Shrink Your Brain

Let’s Talk A Little More About Inflammation

Inflammation—we’ve all heard of it, and many people are beginning to understand just how damaging it can be to the whole body, especially the brain.

Inflammation is our body’s natural defense system. When your body senses foreign invaders, a specific cascade of events is set off, in which your white blood cells and some special chemicals called cytokines mobilize to protect you.

This normal type of inflammation is a good thing. It helps your body protect and heal itself.  However, when your immune system shifts out of balance, inflammation can run rampant—causing a chronic, smoldering fire inside your body that contributes to disease and weight gain.

The causes of this type of inflammation are all around you.  The sugar you eat, high doses of the wrong oils and fats in your diet, hidden food allergens, lack of exercise, chronic stress, and hidden infections all trigger a raging, unseen inflammation deep in your cells and tissues.

And this inflammation leads to every one of the major chronic diseases of aging—heart disease, cancer, diabetes, dementia, and more.

A recent study published in Neurology, looked at inflammatory markers of 1,633 middle-aged (average age of 53) participants. After twenty-four years, they used an M.R.I. and a memorization task to test memory and brain volume of the participants. What they found was that, “Compared to participants with no elevated midlife inflammatory markers, participants with elevations in three or more markers had, on average, 5% smaller hippocampal and Alzheimer disease signature region volumes.”

Participants who had higher levels of inflammation in midlife also performed poorly on the memory task compared to individuals who did not have elevated inflammatory markers.

What does this mean? It means that inflammation can wreak havoc for years, and it’s not to be taken lightly. If you are dealing with systemic inflammation, it becomes critical to cool the fire within to prevent the cascade of damaging events that can occur from hidden inflammation.

Many doctors including myself emphasize tackling inflammation, which is considered to be the root cause of most disease. In this blog, I want to present you with the first two steps to reducing inflammation in the body.

Two Important Steps To Reduce Inflammation

  1. Drop sugar, or at least reduce it. There is no question that sugar causes inflammation. In fact, it might be the number one source of inflammation. Sugar in all its forms is the root cause of our obesity epidemic and most of the chronic disease sucking the life out of our citizens and our economy—and, increasingly, the rest of the world. I like to have a sweet treat once in a while, but sugar is not part of my day-to-day diet. This means ditching all forms of sugar including artificial sweeteners.
  2. Reduce stress. We are just beginning to understand the full effects that stress has on the body. It is not pretty. Chronic stress has become an epidemic in our society where faster is better and we attempt to pack more obligations into our ever-expanding schedules. Managing stress is absolutely critical if we want to stop inflammation from taking over our bodies. Find a way to reduce stress. For me that means, using the sauna, reflecting, giving thanks, massage, exercise, connecting with loved ones, and making time to cook healthy meals. Learn how to actively relax. Your life depends on it.

If you can do just two things today to start to reduce inflammation, ditching sugar and managing stress are great steps. Less inflammation = a better brain.

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The Gut-Brain Connection Is Important For Mental Health And More!

The Role Of A Healthy Gut In Healthy Brain Function

A large body of evidence is accumulating to support a role between healthy gut function, neural development and function of the central nervous system. The microbiota present in the gut should be considered an inner organ with functions similar in importance to any other organ present in the body. Disruptions in this “organ” may alter many things including central nervous system function, contributing to ADHD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and a host of other maladies.

Interesting Facts About The Gut

The human gut is sterile at birth, but is quickly colonized. By one year of age, it looks similar to that of an adult profile, although it is still unique to that child. Total adult load is estimated at 1,800 genera, 40,000 species, 1-2kg in weight, 100 trillion in number and possesses 100 times the genes found in the human genome. It is the equilibrium of the microorgansims that is important and what you eat and the kind and amount of toxins, including antibiotics affect the gut microbiota.

Here is a great video that explains the importance of what you eat as it affects the gut:

Gut-brain Axis Components

The gut-brain axis includes the following components:

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) which is comprised of the brain and spinal cord
  • Neuroendocrine system (system which creates and montors our hormones)
  • Neuroimmune system (system which patrols our body for foreign invaders and rogue body cells (cancer, etc.)
  • Sympathetic nervous system (SNS) (our “fight or flight” ‘automatic’ nervous system)
  • Parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) (our “rest and digest” ‘automatic’ nervous system)
  • Enteric nervous system (the nervous system that resided in and controls our gut, also known as the “second brain” of the body)
  • Intestinal microbiota (the wide variety of microbes that inhabit our digestive tract)

It is through this bidirectional relationship that signals from the brain can influence the gut and visceral messages from the gut can influence brain function

The known gut-brain axis influences of the microbiota on the host include:

  • Regulation of the mucosal immune system (intestinal immune system “army”)
  • Gastrointestinal motility (movement of the food through the gut)
  • Epithelial barrier function (keeping the gut from being “leaky”)
  • Digestive and host metabolism support
  • Prevention of colonization by pathogen (keeping the bad bugs at bay)
  • Psychopharmacology (chemistry of the brain)

The effects of bacteria on the CNS is critical and begins very early in life. Research shows that germ-free mice demonstrate an exaggerated response to mild stress (high corticosterone and ACTH secretion – which are considered stress hormones). Researchers and medical personnel call the areas of the brain and body that respond to stress as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis or HPA axis. The target gland in the axis is the adrenal gland, which produces the stress hormones after being stimulated by the pituitary gland in response to brain perceieved stresss. In the referenced study, the exaggerated stress response was corrected by colonization of the gut by pathogen-free bacteria from other control mice used in the research study. This same study showed that microbial content of the gut is critical to the development of an appropriate stress response later in life and that there is a critical window where colonization must occur to ensure proper HPA axis development.

Microbiota and its effects on the Central Nervous System

The most obvious connection is in patients with hepatic encephalopathy, which is a stable form of neuropsychiatric disorder, that usually presents with external precipitating factors. In other words, the effect on gut dysfunction causing brain dysfunction with this disorder is purely from the liver disease. Patients in hepatic failure often develop Impaired cognition, tremors, dementia and even coma. Treatment is an oral, non-absorbed antibiotic which works to reduce urease producing bacteria and therefore ammonia production and other neurotoxins.

How Dysfunction In The Gut Impacts The Brain

In basic terms, unwanted materials from the gut make there way into the blood stream via a damaged gut wall and in turn the barrier between the blood stream and the brain is also breached, leading to unwanted chemicals in the brain’s blood supply. Think of the gut-blood barrier and the blood-brain barrier as the screens in your window frames at your house. Normally the screens will allow air to flow into and out of your home as desired. Secondly the intact screens will keep unwanted “bugs” outside such as flies and mosquitoes, etc, as well as keeping rover or the cat inside. When a screen has a defect, such as a tear or hole, then bugs and critters can come into your home and the family pets may see their way to enlarge the hole to escape to the outside world.

In my metaphor the chemicals that make their way into the brain are what trigger several types of runaway chemical processes that disrupt the normal electrochemical functions of the brain, thus causing a variety of health challenges.

For the technically oriented reader, here is an image that explains how the gut impacts the brain:

Definitions:

  • Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) – molecules present on the surface of gram-negative bacteria that elicit a strong immune response.
  • Cytokines – messengers used by the immune  system to communicate with itself and other parts of the body including the CNS. Cytokines can be inflammatory, anti-inflammatory or regulatory.

Factors That Are Known To Cause The Gut Barrier To Fail

Several known factors will contribute to failure of the integrity of the gut barrier and thus lead to health challenges that we often associate as brain or neurological disorders. Here is a short list to consider. Simple healthy lifestyle choices can be adopted to correct the majority of them:

  • Stress
  • High fructose in the diet
  • The Western diet high in bad fats and sugar
  • Nutrient deficiencies, including magnesium, zinc, omega 3 fats, and vitamin D
  • Lack of exercise
  • Overuse of antibotics and non-steroidal antiinflammatory medications
  • Food allergies and intolerances

In summary, your gut and brain are super important to keep in good shape if you want to live a healthy life, one with the least potential for developing health challenges. 

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Beyond Medicating The Brain: Why We Need a New Approach

What’s the generally accepted medical practice for treating someone with clinical depression, anxiety, ADHD, migraines, seizures, or many other “brain” problems?

The usual answer is to prescribe a pill, such as a stimulant, an anti-depressant, an anti-anxiety medication, or in some cases, a mood stabilizer/anti-convulsant, or an anti-psychotic

Disadvantages to medicating the brain are becoming more widely known. Many people who take medications still struggle with symptoms. For many others, stopping a medication causes the problems to reappear or even get worse. In addition, there can be side effects ranging from mild to severe.

Further, it is common to take medications for a very long time period, which is not only problematic as dependence can develop, but there are also growing concerns about the long-term use of medications and for good reason.

The pills don’t TEACH you how to change your own brain. They just temporarily help manage symptoms.

For certain “brain problems”, such as autism, Asperger’s, learning difficulties, PTSD, and even stroke and traumatic brain injury, there are no medications that really work well or work at all. Yet, these are clearly brain problems.

MOVING PAST MEDICATION: HEALING THE BRAIN THROUGH NEUROFEEDBACK

There are other ways to change the brain. What you eat, your blood sugar, hydration level, and exercise are all critical to brain function. In addition, psychotherapy has been shown to change the brain over time. These are important, but what other component can make a key difference in healing the brain?

NEUROFEEDBACK AS PART OF A TREATMENT STRATEGY CAN BE INCREDIBLY POWERFUL

Stories abound – how kids and adults have changed their lives by using neurofeedback to overcome ADHD, anger, mood problems, anxiety, migraines, and even seizures. It’s not instant; it takes time for the brain to change and learn. Typically, if neurofeedback is done right, these symptoms improve. Often, once clients are functioning better and have fewer symptoms, they can reduce their reliance on medication.

Neurofeedback has been proven to change the brain – to change timing in the brain. It’s published in scientific literature. It’s used by thousands of licensed healthcare professionals around the world and is possibly the most important new tool available for mental and neurological health.

The improvements cut across all disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, stroke, OCD, and far more. They are all brain problems. Improve the brain, and you see people overcome their symptoms.

UNLIKE PILLS, NEUROFEEDBACK IS MOST SUCCESSFUL WHEN PATIENTS STOP USING IT

If the brain really LEARNS to change and make healthier patterns, it won’t forget them. Neurofeedback is learning. Unlike medications, once you’ve learned how to manage your brain and mind better, you can usually stop actively brain training. If you’ve learned it well enough, you’ll remember how to continue what you trained. Often, no more sessions are needed.

Neurofeedback is not a panacea. Some clients will still remain on medications. Yet by encouraging the brain to function better, it is common for patients to end up on less medication yet many are able to completely eliminate medications. There are a number of clinical case reports where clients who have been on medications for many years have been able to cut back their medications dramatically. Sometimes they are able to stop them completely.

When the brain works better, there is less need for medications. People are able to adequately manage their brain state more easily. The more efficient the brain, the less medications that will be needed to accomplish the same effect. If neurofeedback simply helps reduce the reliance on meds and cuts back the use of medications, the result is profound.

BETTER BRAIN AND BODY FUNCTIONING

The biggest benefit of neurofeedback is that people function better. They enjoy life more. They are less bothered by irritations and setbacks. Their mood is more stable. Whether on or off meds, happier, more stable people is the key goal.

Many people mistake the power of neurofeedback as something that occurs through the machines that are used. In fact, the machines simply help people increase their ability to manage their own brain. In biofeedback, by definition, it is not the equipment that makes the changes. Clients are strengthening their neural circuits. If you use a weight machine to work out,  the weights don’t make the change in the muscles, the effort put in by the individual creates the change. Fortunately, the only real effort to learn neurofeedback is participation. There’s no real other effort required.

If you or a loved one would like to schedule a brain map to see if neurofeedback is right for you, contact us using the form below

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Do You Have A Leaky Brain?

You’ve heard of leaky gut, but have you heard of a leaky brain? If you have symptoms of leaky gut or intestinal permeability, you most likely also have a leaky brain, or “blood-brain barrier permeability.” How do you know? You can perform a simple test with store-bought supplements to find out.

The blood-brain barrier is a thin barrier that lines the brain. Its role is to keep out viruses, bacteria, chemicals, heavy metals, and other pathogens, but to allow nano-sized particles in and out as necessary.

Unfortunately, the blood-brain barrier can become leaky just as the gut can. A leaky brain allows harmful pathogens to enter, where they trigger inflammation. This chronic inflammation damages and destroys brain tissue, accelerating brain degeneration.Symptoms of leaky brain and leaky gut:

1) A leaky brain has been linked to depression, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, autism, mental illnesses, seizures, and facial palsies.

2) One of the more common symptoms of a leaky brain is brain fog, especially if you feel it after eating.

THE LEAKY BRAIN CHALLENGE TEST

How do you know if your blood-brain barrier is leaky? You can perform a simple test with a store-bought supplement.

Simply take 1,000 mg of straight GABA (not GABA precursors such as theanine). For the best results, be sure to take this test during the day and not at bedtime.

GABA is a calming neurotransmitter. Although you can buy GABA supplements, the truth is the GABA molecule is too large to pass through a healthy blood-brain barrier.

If you feel drowsy or sleepy several hours after taking 1,000 mg of GABA, this means your blood-brain barrier is leaky enough to let GABA through.

Instead of feeling relaxed, some people find GABA makes them feel anxious. This is because the brain’s GABA system is weak and taking GABA over stimulated it. This also indicates a leaky brain barrier.

If taking GABA caused no change in how you feel, that is a good sign your blood-brain barrier is intact.

What causes a leaky brain?

Studies show a variety of factors cause leaky brain:

  • Unstable blood sugar; high blood sugar
  • Gluten
  • Chronic stress
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Poor gut health (leaky gut)
  • Autoimmunity
  • Excess alcohol consumption

Repairing leaky brain and leaky gut:

Fortunately, there is plenty you can do to repair leaky brain, reduce or halt brain inflammation, and slow brain degeneration:

  • Take care of gut health
  • Go gluten-free
  • Remove other food intolerances (dairy, etc.)
  • Manage low or high blood sugar imbalances
  • Ensure adequate vitamin D level
  • Manage inflammation and autoimmunity

Contact us below for more ideas on how you can repair leaky brain and leaky gut and manage symptoms of brain fog, depression, memory loss, and other signs of poor brain function.

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The Seven Types Of ADD

Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD comes in many forms. For many years, healthcare providers believed there was just one type of ADD. However, Dr. Daniel Amen published in his book (Healing ADD) that there are actually 7 distinct types of ADD. 

Some children have a transient form of ADD. Transient meaning comes and goes, depending on the situation. Some have a form that is almost always present. Some people have true ADD and some have other brain based problems that mimic ADD. A good example is those that have dealt with head trauma. We see many adults that did not have ADD as a child but are experiencing ADD symptoms after a concussion or blow to the head.

We have a way of knowing if we are dealing with ADD or some other type of brain based problem. That way is brain mapping. Brain mapping involves the recording of the electrical activity of the brain with EEG sensors. We then take the recordings and send them off to a clinical database for comparison. Mapping is a reliable way to look at brain function.

HERE ARE THE SEVEN TYPES:

Type 1: Classic ADD

Type 2: Inattentive ADD

Type 3: Overfocused ADD

Type 4: Temporal Lobe ADD

Type 5: Limbic ADD

Type 6: Ring of Fire ADD

Type 7: Anxious ADD

The first step is a brain map. Type 1 ADD is completely different than the other 6 types. Brain mapping allows for targeted management of the problem. It allows us to identify where the problem is and the severity of the problem area. It also allows us to monitor progress. This is very different than any other model of care for ADD. The brain map model of care for ADD is 21st century care.

It is important for people to know that stimulant and antipsychotic medications are not the only options for dealing with ADD. There are very effective non-drug options for attention deficit disorder. We have had a very high success rate in dealing with ADD through mapping, neurofeedback, frontal lobe exercises, nutrition and metabolic testing. We have used this technique for almost a decade. For more information about our targeted ADD management program , contact us using the form or phone number below.

Dealing with ADD and other disorders can have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life and by using an alternative natural treatment, this negative impact can potentially be significantly reduced. It is important, however, to work with a treatment provider that uses the complete systems approach with alternative natural treatments so a person can get on the path to living a better life. Thus, if you or someone you know must deal with ADHD, contract a provider today.

Remember, brain maps help find the cause of ADHD. Neurofeedback can often correct the problem.

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The History Of Neurofeedback And Why It Is Beneficial In Treating ADD And ADHD

When considering treatment options for ADD and ADHD, understanding the history of a specific treatment and how effective it has been in other circumstances as well as for treating ADD and ADHD, can help you make more informed decisions concerning your treatment. It also assists you in understanding the complex process of Neurofeedback and its overall effect on the patient’s brain. Alternative medical treatments like Neurofeedback therapy have a long history in helping people deal with various disorders.

The 1950’s-60’s

The two founders, if you will, of Neurofeedback are Dr. Joe Kamiya, at the time with the University of Chicago and Dr. Barry Sterman at the University of California at Los Angeles. Dr. Joe Kamiya was developing experiments concerning consciousness and following on Pavlov’s theories, developed a reward system that would alter the brainwave patterns of participants in his experiment with the real time results being displayed using an EEG. Dr. Barry Sterman began working with cats to determine if they could self-regulate their Sensory Motor Rhythm (SMR). Using a simple reward system, the cats were rewards when they altered their brainwaves to gain the correct frequency. The results from both these experiments drew the attention of NASA who were having difficulties with Astronauts and their exposure to toxic fuel sources.

The Space Program

Dr. Sterman was contracted by NASA to discover how exposure to toxic rocket fuel caused an epileptic response in humans. During the initial experiments, the negative side effects of the fuel became apparent with the exception of ten of the cats used in his original experiments. It became obvious that the effects of the SMR brainwave training had created stable brains that were resistant to acute epilepsy. By moving this neurofeedback training to the astronauts, he was able to reduce the onset of epilepsy responses in sixty percent of the participants. In addition, the reduction ranged from twenty to one hundred percent and the effect was long lasting. As a result, this type of training is still in use by NASA for all astronaut missions, and thus Neurofeedback became an alternative medical treatment for epilepsy.

The 1970’s Dark Ages

In the 1970’s, while Dr. Kamiya’s and Dr. Sterman’s work was in the hands of legitimate scientists and further research into Neurofeedback was undertaken, it was also taken up by Spiritualists and Meditators as a means of engaging followers in mystical beliefs. As such, it’s credibility was damaged as many began to see Alternative Medical treatments as being associated with shams and hokey medicine. However, while the mainstream was focused on negative press from these charlatans, scientists began to explore the role of Neurofeedback in conjunction with the newly understood plasticity of the brain.

The 1980’s To Current

Towards the beginning of the 1980’s, scientists concerned with Neurofeedback began experiments to determine how effective this therapy could be used with other central nervous disorders and with ADD in specific. In addition, further research concerning Neurofeedback and epilepsy continued. By the 1990’s, Neurofeedback had shown significant promise is dealing with a wide range of conditions and more experimentation was conducted with the effect on spectrum disorders such as ADHD and even autism. At the turn of the century, and in conjunction with a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms in the brain, Neurofeedback moved from the experimentation aspect to that of a direct treatment for various conditions. Now, numerous treatment providers offer Neurofeedback as an alternative medical treatment to ADD and ADHD, as well as epilepsy and more.

The effectiveness of Neurofeedback therapy as a means of assisting those with ADD and ADHD is well established by science and the results have been shown to be long lasting. This is a significant benefit for those with ADD and ADHD, however, it is not limited to just those with ADD and ADHD.

A very helpful article that offers an in-depth review of neurofeedback entitled, What is Neurofeedback: An Update can be download. Just click on the link.

To further explore if the alternative medical treatment of Neurofeedback is right for you, contact a treatment provider today.

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Balancing And Nourishing The Brain Helps Resolve Many Health Challenges

Neurobehavioral disorders have exploded in our current generation. ADHD is diagnosed in a significant portion of school aged children. A research survey of parents shows that approximately 11% of children 4-17 years of age (6.4 million) have ever been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2011. Autism statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrum–a ten-fold increase in prevalence over the last 40 years. Studies also show that autism is four to five times more common among boys than girls. An estimated 1 out of 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States. ASD is estimated to affect more than 2 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide. We are seeing many cases of anxiety and depression in kids as young as 4.

Many of these problems can be managed by balancing the brain and improving nutrition. By finding out what is over- firing and under-firing, we can offer a non-drug option to many of the families dealing with these health challenges. For many years the healthcare establishment had to guess what was happening in the brain of the patient. That no longer is the case. We can now find the cause with a painless 20-minute brain map, officially known as an qEEG or “Q” for short.

QEEG OR BRAIN-MAPPING

Common brain imaging techniqes such as MRIs , CAT scans and x-rays are built to measure brain structure. An EEG measures brain activity.An EEG uses surface sensors to detect the the brain’s electrical patterns (known as brainwaves). It is these electrical patterns, the brain’s activity, that is important to us. An EEG tells us what your brain is doing, moment to moment.Getting an EEG is non-invasive and painless. Much like a heart monitor which only records your heart rate, the sensors only record the electrical activity of the brain; it is not invasive in any way. Brain mapping was introduced more than 30 years ago as a means to measure and diagnose brain function. It has become a primary tool in neuroscience. QEEG’s are used in research centers all over the world to study ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, depression and bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety disorders, learning disabilities, and emotional conditions of every sort.

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Clinic Studies On Neurofeedback – Make An Informed Decision For Drug Free Care

Neurofeedback is among the most exciting technological advances in medicine. Studies are emerging that confirm what practitioners have witnessed for years.

In 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics underwent a rigorous review of all the available data on neurofeedback.  The following policy statement was developed from this review process:

The American Academy of Pediatrics approved biofeedback and neurofeedback as a Level 1 or “best support” treatment option for children suffering from ADHD.

Research and clinical studies show many cognitive issues which are unresponsive to medication or psychotherapy often can be resolved within 20-40 Neurofeedback therapy sessions. Others require a greater number of sessions. Chronic,  longstanding emotional and physical issues, including those complicated by  substance abuse, can show marked improvement within 20 treatments.

2009 Clinical Study for Neurofeedback and ADHD
(click above title to view the original study)

In 2009 one of the best clinical trials so far on the effectiveness of Neurofeedback on ADHD was published.  In this trial researchers studied 102 children with ADHD, age 8-12 years, for 36 sessions of Neurofeedback and compared it to 36 sessions of computerized attention skills training as a the control.  Researchers carefully rated progress using pre-training, intermediate and post-training assessments completed by parents and teachers.  In their findings, researchers found that Neurofeedback was more effective than the control group doing only attention skills training and thus established clinical efficacy for Neurofeedback that was statistically significant.

Neurofeedback for Autism Spectrum Disorder
(click above title to view the original study)

In 2007 the Journal of Neurotherapy published a study demonstrating the effectiveness of Neurofeedback for Autism Spectrum Disorders.  In this study 37 patients were treated with 20 sessions of Neurofeedback Therapy.  Compared with the control group, significant improvement was found in Autistics who recieved treatment.  In fact, core ASD symptoms were reduced by 40%, with an 89% success rate!

“Research on autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) shows that neurofeedback (EEG biofeedback) can remediate anomalies in brain activation, leading to symptom reduction and functional improvement. This evidence raises the hopes for a behavioral, psychophysiological intervention moderating the severity of ASD.”

–ScienceDaily (Feb. 28, 2008)

More Research on Neurofeedback

Many disorders have been shown to be successfully treated by Neurofeedback Therapy.  For extensive discussions, case studies,clinical studies, and research information go to:

 

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Brainwaves, The Key To Healthy Brain Function

Types of Brainwaves

Our brain is an electro-chemical organ. We can measure the electrical output of our brain using EEG (also called a brain map or QEEG).  Science has discovered that certain high and low electrical activity is associated with specific neurobehavioral symptoms. EEG has been used for many years to determine seizure activity and proof of life. We use this advanced technology to determine the quality of ones life and function in the patients we serve.

Here are brief descriptions of each type of brain wave:

Delta (1-4 hertz): Often referred to as the sleep wave. High delta waves are not a bad thing when we are asleep. High delta waves in a wakeful state can be very problematic. Brain fog is associated with high levels of delta waves. Brain fog in adults can show up as losing keys, not remembering where you parked, asking others where you left off mid-sentence or forgetting appointments. Brain fog in children is usually seen when they zone out and have a hard time staying on task.

Theta (4-7 hertz): Referred to as the focus and attention wave. Also called the meditative wave. High Theta waves have been associated with attention deficit disorder for many years. We often see high Theta with autism cases, ADHD cases and people in their 40s and 50s who can longer focus well.

Alpha (8-12 hertz): We refer to alpha waves as the emotional waves. People who make high alpha tend to have difficulty controlling their emotions.  They may experience mood swings, anger, and many have short fuses. High alpha can also make it difficult for us to filter our environment. People who make low alpha waves tend to experience more depressive states and/or low motivation.

Beta (13-30 hertz): Beta is associated with executive functions. These include learning, communication, understanding, prioritizing, task initiation and completion, organization and managing new situations. Unbalanced beta waves are associated with many different issues, including forms of ADHD and Autism Spectrum. High beta can also be seen in anxiety, OCD/addiction, fatigue, memory problems, chronic pain, and insomnia. Low beta is often seen in low function brains and people who are experiencing burnout.

We can use a tool called neurofeedback to balance these brain waves. Neurofeedback is the retraining of brain waves using a computerized monitoring and reward system. A patient sits and watches a movie while photic (light) stimulation suggests to the brain to speed up or slow down, depending on the case. When the brain does what we want, the patient is rewarded by the computer with being able to see and hear a movie for instance. When the brain goes back to the old, negative pattern, the movie fades out and mutes. This process of reward teaches the brain how to create better connections.  By this process, a feedback loop is created. This allows the patient’s brain to learn how to regulate the brain waves by itself through a process known as NeuroPlasticity. The process often takes between 20-40 sessions to complete.  Like learning to ride a bicycle, the results can last for many years, barring any head trauma or major psychological trauma.

Neurofeedback enjoys a high success rate for many neurobehavioral symptoms.  We blend the neurofeedback model with advanced neurologic rehab activities to balance the brain hemispheres and nutritional protocols to support healthy brain metabolism.

One of the most important factors in managing any patient case is understanding what the person is experiencing.  Analyzing the brain waves helps us objectively determine if there is a neurological cause to the symptoms a person is experiencing.

Balancing a person’s brain waves can be very helpful. We have used it for many years and had great success in ADHD, Autism Spectrum, post-concussion, Migraine Headaches, PTSD, Addiction Management, Memory Management, chronic pain, anxiety, depression and insomnia cases.

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The Pros And Cons Of Neurofeedback Therapy For ADD/ADHD

Neurofeedback therapy is a proven means of offering treatment for ADD and ADHD. This type of treatment is a form of biofeedback, in which auditory or visual stimuli are used to help train the mind to produce the appropriate brain wave patterns. It is non-invasive and does not present many of the side effects found in other treatments such as using pharmaceuticals to reduce ADD/ADHD symptoms. However, as with any treatment regime, there are both pros and cons to its use. Still, for many of those who are challenged by ADD/ADHD, the pros significantly outweigh the cons.

Proven Results
Perhaps the largest and most important pro to the use of neurofeedback therapy to help with ADD/ADHD is that it has been proven to provide results and results that are long term. This type of treatment has been studied for decades as a means of providing treatment for Attention Deficit and other disorders with a high degree of effectiveness. Numerous studies, including this one, have shown that neurofeedback is effective even when compared with pharmaceutical treatments. In addition to ADD/ADHD, this type of biofeedback has been used to treat brain injuries illustrating the versatility of these types of treatments in treating all types of different aspects concerning the brain.

Non-Invasive/No Side-Effects
Another pro, in favor, of using neurofeedback as means of treating ADD/ADHD is that it is a non-invasive procedure that produces no side effects. With pharmaceuticals, there are often side effects that can range in severity that can contribute to the already existing challenge of dealing with ADD/ADHD. However, neurofeedback therapy presents none of these concerns. This is even when this type of therapy is used in conjunction with other treatment options, as this therapy will not enhance any existing side effects from other potential treatments. Thus allowing it to be utilized with other treatments with no adverse effects or contraindications.

Repeatable As Needed
Other treatments for ADD/ADHD can lose effectiveness over time, especially when durations between treatments are considered. This type of therapy can be repeated as many times as necessary over the period of a lifetime to enhance or reinforce previous treatments, without losing its effectiveness as a treatment option. This also allows other treatments to be utilized to either enhance existing treatments with biofeedback or in place of without reducing any potential effect of the biofeedback as a treatment as new neurofeedback treatments can be applied.

The Cons
In practical terms, there are very few cons with the most prominent one being that some individuals will develop or have an allergic reaction to the gel applied to the sensors. This can easily be adjusted for, and any reaction is short-lived and relatively harmless. Another potential con is when considered over multiple treatments, this biofeedback option can increase costs over other treatment options. Finally, as with other treatment options, neurofeedback is not effective in all cases and all situations.

Neurofeedback therapy is an effective means of achieving long-term results for those who suffer from the challenges of ADD/ADHD. It is non-invasive, produces no side effects and can easily be combined with other treatment options for a more comprehensive approach to helping you manage your ADD/ADHD. While it is true that not everyone will see the same results nor will they have the same longevity of results, the ability for the treatments to be repeated allows for a better response over time. Of course, this type of treatment is not a cure but it offers the potential to reduce the concerns associated with ADD and ADHD, and it potentially can help you put your quality of life back under your control.

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What Is Neurofeedback And Can It Help You?

Neurofeedback Therapy is a proven effective and safe alternative to other forms of treatment for ADD, ADHD and a host of other disorders. Part of a type of treatment regime referred to as biofeedback, this type of treatment is a non-invasive therapy that works to help you retrain your mind to help you regain your concentration and focus. It can be repeated as often as necessary and each session helps to improve the results. It can work with other treatment options or it can be conducted as a sole therapy, with the overall goal of helping you get the end result you need to improve your quality of life.

What Is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is the process in which your specific brain patterns are analyzed and mapped and then via audio or visual stimuli, are adjusted to produce the correct patterns that correspond with increased levels of focus and concentration. Small sensors are placed on the scalp and then a computer adjusts the stimuli to correspond to your specific pattern thus allowing you the ability to cognitively adjust those patterns to gain the result. This type of therapy, helps you retrain your mind and it has been proven to be very effective in helping those who suffer from various disorders such as ADD and ADHD.

Can It Help Me?
Naturally, each situation is different as each person is also different. One of the positive aspects of Neurofeedback therapy is that it can produce results across a broad spectrum of disorders. In addition, it has been shown to produce significant results those who suffer from ADD and ADHD as well as epileptic disorders or those that have suffered trauma from accidents or disasters. Given that this type of therapy can be used as a stand-alone therapy or as a comprehensive therapy, the potential for any single case showing improvement is significant. In some situations it might require a short therapy duration while others might require a longer duration to achieve results, the potential exists for some level of improvement in most individuals. In addition, it can be repeated as often as necessary with each therapy session building on the previous ones.

Long Term Results
One of the interesting facets to engaging with Neurofeedback Therapy is that the results tend to have longer lasting effects than that using other treatment regimes. This is primarily due to the fact that Neurofeedback works directly towards the core of the concern, the brain, as opposed to being limited to treating or relieving the symptoms a person suffers from. When combined in a comprehensive therapy setting, the longer term potential is increased even further, thus not only helping to reduce the symptoms of the concern but also providing a stable level upon which the improvement as a result of Neurofeedback Therapy can build thus enhancing the results potentially even longer. As previously mentioned, the fact that it can be repeated multiple times can also enhance the results in the long term.

While there is a tendency to dismiss “alternative” treatments, the underlying fact is that treatments such as Neurofeedback, have had a profound positive effect on many individuals who suffer from a host of concerns. By engaging with a therapy provider who has the knowledge and experience with this type of treatment and who can assist you with developing a comprehensive approach to your concern, you potentially can increase significantly your quality of life. Neurofeedback works and it can work for you and it can be the first step in improving your life for yourself and those around you. If you think that this therapy could be right for you, contact us today.

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