Neurofeedback Training – Multiple Applications in Treatment

A Quick Guide

Neurofeedback refers to a method that allows people to consciously control their brain waves. In this, a person’s EEG is recorded and its components in the form of audio, and video are fed back to them. Likewise, this enables them to track any changes, and progress and gives them the power to self-regulate. As a result, such a person can achieve an optimal state of functioning.

Neurofeedback Training: Clinical Applications

The advances in brain science have allowed us to understand abnormal brain functioning. Consequently, training in neurofeedback allows its treatment, especially for multiple psychological disorders. A few of them include:

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

A person with an ADHD diagnosis struggles to maintain attention. Thus, he easily gets distracted. Moreover, hyperactivity is also present which makes staying on the task at hand quite difficult. Usually, medications or behavioral therapy are popular treatment options. For example, drugs like Ritalin, Concerta, and Dexedrine. However, they also have side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, headache, irritability, pain, etc. Here, neurofeedback training is useful. As it decreases brain activity and increases focus and concentration. This can help such children focus on getting good grades by sustaining their attention.

Schizophrenia

Some studies suggest that schizophrenia which comes with symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, confusion, and reduced effect, can benefit from this training especially to adjust brain activity.

Insomnia

People who have trouble sleeping can improve their sleep by engaging in neurofeedback training to induce a sense of calm in their bodies and mind.

Other psychological conditions

• People who have learning disabilities particularly trouble in reading, spelling, and doing calculations, may find this training helpful in improving their cognitive functioning.
• Individuals having addictions can learn to reduce the temptation for drugs, alcohol, and even computer games.
• Autism spectrum disorder which is a neurodevelopmental condition brings with it difficulty in communication, social interaction, and motor activity disturbance along with multiple other symptoms. They can learn how to regulate their mental activity through this training.
• Neurofeedback training can also address Epilepsy and its effects.
• Changing brain wave activity can regulate depression and anxiety symptoms.
• For some people, brain wave regulation helps to eliminate sensations of chronic pain and muscle tension. As a result, pain perception is reduced.
• Similarly, other physical problems like migraines, attention problems, memory issues, injuries, withdrawal, health issues, eating disorders, OCD, and Parkinson’s disease, can be regulated using biofeedback training.

We hope the above article was useful for you in understanding neurofeedback training and its applications.