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The
brain sends messages to the body through electrical impulses transmitted by the
central nervous system. When the brain is injured due to
illness, stress, diet, allergies or accidents,
these electrical impulses (brainwaves) are disturbed. This creates abnormal rhythmic patterns. As the brain continues to transmit these abnormal patterns, imbalances are created in the body and symptoms appear.
EEG (the brainwave) is an electrical waveform
pattern that can be observed by placing non-invasive
sensors, or electrodes, on specific sites on the surface of the head.
The
sensors enable the brainwave-EEG patterns to then be displayed on a computer
screen.
Neurotherapy is one way to assist the brain in bringing itself and the body back into balance. It
involves an advanced form of biofeedback which requires highly s pecialized
computer equipment to accurately enhance and magnify human brainwave electrical
impulses. When the patient is provided with this "feedback" through auditory or
visual stimuli, he or she begins to learn to produce different brainwave
patterns in order to attain distinctly healthier states. This is
a non-invasive procedure which is relaxing and pleasant for
the patient. Individuals usually participate in 1 to 3 hourly sessions per week
for approximately 30 to 40 sessions.
Studies have shown that a variety
of disorders are significantly relieved by this process, including addictions,
depression, anxiety, ADD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic
stress disorder, pre-menstrual syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, certain
closed-head injuries, PPD, SID, headaches, stroke, and even learning disabilities.
Neurotherapy has appeal because it
provides highly effective treatment without medication. In some instances,
however, patients may begin neurotherapy while under the care of a physician who is treating the symptoms with medication. Frequently these patients are able to
gradually taper off and even discontinue their medications after beginning the neurothe rapy program.
ADD/ADHD: The screen on the right is an example of a training screen for ADD. When the patient begins to focus the
movie will play. As they continue to learn better ways of focusing
they see more of the movie. This visual feedback
lets them know when they are attending.
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