BASIS FOR
NEUROFEEDBACK WITH ADD/ADHD
UNDERACTIVATION OF THE CEREBRAL
CORTEX
On MRIs, a scan which shows
brain structure, decreased cell density is found
On PET, a measure of brain metabolism, decreased cerebral
blood flow is seen
On EEGs, a measure of electrical activity, more slow brain
wave patterns are seen
AN IMBALANCE IN BRAIN WAVE ACTIVITY
Researchers have found that
children with ADD/ADHD have 30% more slow brain wave
activity when performing cognitive tasks. Medications, such
as Ritalin, help "calm down" children by artificially
increasing their level of brain activation and as a result,
temporarily relieve symptoms. There are now drug-free
solutions for the treatment of ADD.
Neurofeedback trains children (and adults) to employ
self-regulation techniques to increase brain activity as
needed, alleviating symptoms long-term and often
eliminating medication.
Once the brain has learned to regulate itself better, it
continues using that skill.
NEUROFEEDBACK FOR TOURETTE
SYNDROME
Multiple case studies exist
that report success with the symptoms of Tourette's
syndrome. Neurofeedback is helpful in addressing tics.
Many times Tourette Syndrome co-occurs with anxiety,
depression and attention problems.
Neurofeedback can be helpful for these associated problems.
Because stimulant medications can make tics worse,
neurofeedback is often the preferred way to address the
problems of attention and impulsiveness that are often part
of Tourette Syndrome.