Non-Profit
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Non-Profit
|
| . |
 |
Physical Disorders[ Back to Menu ]
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Over the past 10 years, we have observed considerable clinical evidence for the effectiveness of Neurobiofeedback(sm) training in alleviating the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), or Chronic Fatigue Immune Deficiency Syndrome (CFIDS). Neurobiofeedback(sm) appears to help symptoms of depression, cognitive deficits, memory and concentration problems, sleep disturbances, and chronic pain such as headaches. As a result, indivduals experience increased energy level. When Neurobiofeedback(sm) is used with persons who are not entirely disabled by the condition, it has allowed many of them to return to full-time productive activity within a matter of weeks. In more severe cases, the impact of the training is generally felt to be helpful, but comlete alleviation of symptoms has not been demonstrated in these cases. The mechanism of action appears to be that the Neurobiofeedback(sm) training impacts the regulation of arousal, and it increases the brain's regulation on its own functions. It does this by monitoring brainwave activity, and restoring it, by means operant conditioning, to more "normal" ranges. The process of Neurobiofeedback(sm) is largely unconscious, much like learning how to ride a bike. Difficult to explain, yet easy to understand once experienced. The process of Neurobiofeedback(sm) makes available the necessary information upon which the brain then acts. We are not claiming that the training directly addresses the fundamental cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. However, by increasing the ability of the brain to self-regulate, we may be increasing the ability of the person to manage challenges, including this condition. Persons suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may wish to evaluate the effectiveness of the training for themselves by undertaking it for an initial period of time. If the training is likely to be effective, one should see early signs of progress within 10-12 sessions: an increase in energy level, and perhaps favorable changes in sleep patterns or reduction in pain. A decision can then be made by the client as to whether Neurobiofeedback(sm) is worthwhile continuing. The first 10-12 sessions should be conducted in close succession, at a minimum of 2-3 sessions per week. Daily sessions would be preferable, however, the reality of time constraints are understandably difficult. Under these circumstances, the gains from each training session are more cumulative, and also the changes induced by the training can be more readily distinguished from those ascribable to other factors. Completion of the training
may take a few months, at a rate of 2-3 training sessions per week. 40
or more training sessions may be required to achieve the full potential
of training. However, effectiveness and results vary from person to person
and the amount of sessions may also be significantly less. The training
is monitored continuously, and if expected gains are not observed, then
the training should be ended. Below you will find additional studies that
speak to the effectiveness of Neurobiofeedback(sm) with CFS. Note: Neurobiofeedback(sm) is a word that we have coined because we believe it accurately describes the marriage of both traditional biofeedback and neurofeedback. You will notice other describtions referring to Neurofeedback below such as EEG-Biofeedback, Neurotherapy, etc. These designations are all pertaining to EEG (brainwaves) training, unless otherwise noted in the research below.
Send
your comments to: info@expertsinmind.com |
