Every day, scientists discover more evidence that the brain is capable of doing great things. The brain helps shape people’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and perceptions. The brain has thousands of microscopic neurons that control the brain’s electrical activity. The neurons help people think, feel, and process information. Despite all of the advancements in recent years, scientists are still trying to figure out the mysteries of the brain.
Neurocore has begun using brain mapping, EEG technology, and neurofeedback to treat mental issues such as anxiety, ADHD, and depression. Many people might be surprised to realize that neurotherapeutic applications have a long history of development. Here is a look at the history of neurofeedback and brain mapping technologies.
Origins:
Italian scientists Luigi Galvani and Alessandro Volta began studying bio-electric theory and modern electro-physiology during the late 18th century. Galvani put frog legs on his iron fence during lightning storms. The frog legs would react every time the lightning flashed. Volta believed that the contractions were caused by unique electrical properties.
About Neurotherapy:
Neurotherapy is the practice of using electrical measurements of brain waves to help the brain self-regulate. Neuro-feedback helps the brain function more efficiently while eliminating negative brain activity. Joe Kamiya’s article: “Operant Control Of The EEG Alpha Rhythm” helped popularize neurotherapy.
In the article, Kamiya talks about the results of separate tests that he conducted. Kamiya noticed that people could change their brain waves on command. While Kamiya was conducting his research, UCLA doctor Barry Sterman was conducting tests on cats. He wanted to increase a cat’s sensory motor rhythm. Dr. Sterman conducted similar experiments for NASA. Based on Dr. Sterman’s findings, NASA began having their lunar astronauts undergo SMR training. Dr. Sterman was able to help people reduce their epilepsy.
How Neurotherapy Can Treat Depression:
Clinical depression affects millions of Americans every day. A person’s genetics, hormones, and brain chemistry can impact how severe a person’s clinical depression is. Frederick Lemere was the first person to use neurotherapy to treat clinical depression. Lemere’s strategies have been used by Neurocore scientists to create a Medication Free Depression Treatment Program through neurofeedback. Patients are using neurofeedback to help overcome their depression. After completing the program, more than 80% of the patients noticed a reduction in their depression symptoms.
EEG:
An EEG is a test that helps detect electrical activity in the brain. The test is used to help treat brain disorders, brain tumors, sleep disorders, and brain damage. Hans Berger ran the first EEG test on his son.
Treating ADHD:
ADHD is a mental disorder that can cause people to be impulsive or hyperactive. There are three types of ADHD: Predominantly Hyperactive Impulsive Presentation, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation, and a combination of the two. One of the first doctors to show the effects of neurofeedback on ADHD was J.F. Lubar. Lubar’s studies showed that neurofeedback could improve a child’s hyperactivity issues. Thanks to treatment, over 80% of patients have noticed a reduction in their ADHD symptoms.
About Neurocore:
The company’s Brain Performance Centers help provide data based assessments and training programs to patients. The company uses neurofeedback and heart rate variability training. The method helps people strengthen their mind-body connection by regulating their breathing patterns through different breathing methods. There are performance centers in Florida and Michigan. Professional athletes and sports teams have began implementing neurofeedback as an important part of their training regimens.
The future is bright for the Brain Performance Training Centers. The staff continues to work on innovative neurofeedback applications. The staff is currently researching how psychological factors can impact neurofeedback.